Head Coach of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, Aliyu Zubairu, has urged Nigerians to continue offering their prayers and support as the team kicks off their U20 AFCON campaign in Egypt on Thursday with a clash against Tunisia.
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Speaking to media during a pre-match press conference, Coach Aliyu emphasized the team’s thorough preparation and expressed confidence in their readiness for the tournament.
“We are fully prepared,” he affirmed. “Our journey started from Abuja to Katsina, then back to Abuja, and now here we are in Egypt, awaiting our opening game. The boys are ready and eager to give their best.”
Recognizing the deep passion Nigerians have for football and the high expectations placed on the team, he called for unwavering national support.
“Nigerians always show massive interest whenever our teams play. They put aside their daily activities to follow our games. We don’t want to disappoint them,” Aliyu said. “Their prayers are crucial. We need their backing to achieve our goals.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 4-0 win over Tunisia in the third-place match of the previous U20 AFCON, Aliyu dismissed any notions of pressure, instead framing it as motivation.
“There’s no pressure at all. While the past result can inspire us, this is a new game with different squads. History motivates, but we are focused on the present challenge.”
He concluded by highlighting the team’s primary objective: securing a ticket to the U20 World Cup.
“Our main goal is qualification for the World Cup. We’ll assess further ambitions once we reach the semi-finals. Right now, that ticket is our priority,” he stated.
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will face Tunisia at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 4 PM Nigerian time.
