As the Flying Eagles resumed camp in Abuja ahead of the WAFU B U20 Boys Tournament in Ghana, Head Coach Aliyu Zubairu spoke with clear focus and determination, outlining his mission to rebuild and reenergize Nigeria’s U20 team — starting with the attack.
Zubairu, a tactician known for his no-nonsense approach and developmental mindset, admitted that previous outings exposed glaring weaknesses in the team’s attacking play. But this time, he says, the narrative must change.
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“We are taking proactive measures to ensure that the challenges we encountered previously are addressed squarely,” Zubairu stated after the team’s first training session. “My assistants and I have reviewed our past performances thoroughly.
One clear area of concern was our ability to convert chances. That has to improve, and we are already making the necessary adjustments.”
Zubairu revealed that the team’s camp will focus heavily on tactical drills and attacking chemistry, with new players also being closely evaluated for their potential to boost the frontline.
“The tournament in Ghana offers us a good window to showcase a few more players, and we’ll grab that opportunity,” he said. “It’s not just about winning this tournament — it’s about building a team ready to compete at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.”
The Flying Eagles, two-time FIFA U20 World Cup runners-up, are one of four African teams that have qualified for the global showpiece, set for 27th September to 19th October in Chile. The others include South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt.
But first, the WAFU B tournament presents a crucial test. Nigeria will compete in Group A alongside hosts Ghana and Benin Republic. Their campaign kicks off on July 10 against Ghana, followed by a group stage clash with Benin Republic on July 13.
For Zubairu, these matches are more than a regional competition — they’re part of a grander vision.
“We want to win, no doubt. But we also want to prepare the boys for what lies ahead. The World Cup is not far away, and we must use every opportunity — every camp, every match — to fine-tune our squad,” he said.
As the camp intensifies and players fight for places, one thing is clear: under Aliyu Zubairu, the Flying Eagles are on a mission — to correct the past, seize the present, and rise again on the world stage.
