The Flying Eagles’ build-up to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile gained momentum on Tuesday with the arrival of three Europe-based stars Daniel Daga, Hafiz Umar, and Sanni Suleiman at the Abuja training camp.
Head coach Aliyu Zubair confirmed their arrival and expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances at the tournament.
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He emphasized that with the full complement of foreign-based professionals, the team can surpass its past achievements.
Zubair admitted that preparations started slower than expected but noted steady progress since the new arrivals.
He described the absence of Daga, Umar, and Suleiman earlier in camp as a challenge, stressing that their inclusion brings balance and quality.
“This blend is giving us a strong opportunity to pick the very best. Some players are already measuring up well despite challenges with tactical adaptability,” Zubair said.
Profiles of the Trio
Sanni Suleiman (19): The right winger features for AS Trenčín in Slovakia’s Niké Liga. He has scored twice in five appearances this season.
Daniel Daga (18): The central midfielder plies his trade in Norway, with two goals and one assist in just two matches this campaign.
Hafiz Umar (19): The center forward represents Stade Reims in France’s Ligue 2, with four appearances and one goal in the ongoing season.
According to Zubair, the squad now boasts a healthy mix of players from the last U-20 AFCON, home-based talents, and overseas professionals.
This diversity, he explained, is creating stiff competition for places in the final squad.
Nigeria will battle Saudi Arabia, Colombia, and Norway in Group F.
Zubair insisted that qualification from the group stage is “non-negotiable,” adding that the technical crew is carefully studying their opponents.
“We cannot compromise on coming out of the group. All our focus is on achieving that first target,” he declared.
The Flying Eagles have reached the final twice, finishing as runners-up in 1989 and 2005.
Zubair underlined his ambition to push beyond those records, stressing that Nigeria must aim higher in Chile 2025.
