Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, is aiming for a winning start as Nigeria kick off their 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign against Tunisia on Thursday at the June 30 Stadium in Cairo, Egypt.
While the main objective remains securing a ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile later this year, Zubairu says starting well against Tunisia is key to building momentum in the group stage.
“We want to start strong. A good result in the first game will give the boys confidence for the rest of the tournament,” Zubairu told NFF TV. “Our main goal is to reach the semi-finals and qualify for the World Cup, but we must first take care of business against Tunisia.”
Nigeria, who have won the U-20 AFCON seven times, are considered strong contenders once again. But Zubairu is keeping his players focused on one game at a time.
“We’re not thinking about the trophy yet. Let’s qualify for the World Cup first, then we can think about winning the title,” he added.
The team has had a solid preparation, training in Abuja and Katsina before heading to Egypt.
“We’ve prepared well. The boys are fit and ready for Tunisia,” Zubairu said.
Nigeria boast a strong record against Tunisia at U-20 level, including a 4-0 win in their last meeting two years ago in the third-place match of the 2023 edition, also held in Egypt.
Zubairu believes that the past result can inspire his team, though he recognises that both sides have changed since then.
“That win gives us confidence, but we know this is a new challenge. We respect Tunisia, but we’re focused on starting with a win,” he said.
The Flying Eagles will be looking to build on their history and early preparation as they begin their quest for a record-extending eighth continental title—and more importantly, a ticket to the U-20 World Cup.
