Nigeria’s U-20 national team, the Flying Eagles, are setting their sights on victory in their opening fixture against Tunisia at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, as they begin their quest for continental success and a place at the next FIFA U-20 World Cup.
The match, scheduled for Thursday in Cairo, will be the first test in a challenging group that also includes Morocco and Kenya.
With only four qualification spots available for the 2025 U-20 World Cup in Chile, Nigeria’s campaign begins with high stakes and equally high expectations.
Former Nigeria international Dimeji Lawal has urged the team to make a strong statement in their first match, emphasising the importance of starting the group phase with a victory.
Speaking to Completesports.com, Lawal cautioned against allowing Tunisia to score first, warning that early setbacks could be compounded by the North Africans’ well-known game-management tactics.
“I think the Flying Eagles need to get all three points against Tunisia to start their group well,” Lawal said. “The team must avoid conceding first so as not to be frustrated by delaying tactics.”
Nigeria, seven-time champions at this level and two-time FIFA U-20 World Cup finalists, head into the tournament with a blend of youthful energy and pedigree.
Their reputation as a force in African youth football is firmly established, but success in Egypt will demand sharp focus, tactical discipline, and effective game management from the first whistle.
Lawal, who represented Nigeria during his playing days and remains closely involved with youth football development, expressed confidence in the team’s potential.
He pointed to the quality of individual players in the squad, suggesting they are more than capable of rising to the challenge.
“There are good players in the team,” he added. “They have what it takes to make an impact in the tournament. I wish them the very best of luck.”
The Flying Eagles’ match against Tunisia will not only be a crucial moment in their group-stage campaign but also a barometer of how well-prepared the team is to handle pressure in a competition packed with skilled opposition.
Tunisia, known for their disciplined defensive approach, will likely aim to disrupt Nigeria’s rhythm and exploit any lapses in concentration.
With Morocco and Kenya also in the group, Nigeria will need to accumulate points early to avoid being drawn into a complicated qualification scenario.
A win against Tunisia would place them in a strong position heading into their remaining group fixtures.
The 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations serves as both a prestigious continental title race and a gateway to the global stage in Chile.
For Nigeria, the road to redemption after recent U-20 setbacks starts now — and the journey begins with a crucial encounter against a tactical and resilient Tunisian side.
As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Cairo this Thursday, where the Flying Eagles will aim to begin their campaign with purpose, precision, and the promise of greater things to come.
