Flying Eagles coach Aliyu Zubairu has called on his players to remain focused as they prepare for their crucial final group match against Colombia at the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
Speaking after Nigeria’s hard-fought 3–2 victory over Saudi Arabia, which gave the team its first win of the tournament, Zubairu reminded his squad that the job is far from over and that qualifying from the group remains the priority.
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The Flying Eagles had suffered a disappointing defeat in their opening game against Norway, leaving them with no choice but to secure maximum points against Saudi Arabia to keep their campaign alive.
Zubairu revealed that in the aftermath of the loss, the players themselves pledged to give everything in the next match, and he expressed pride that they kept their promise on the pitch.
“The players declared they would give everything against Saudi Arabia, and they did exactly that,” Zubairu said. “Their determination to grind out the result was commendable, but now our focus must immediately turn to Colombia.”
Nigeria’s performance against Saudi Arabia was a blend of grit and resilience, with the players showing hunger in front of goal while also standing firm defensively in the closing stages.
Zubairu hailed the effort but stressed that improvement is needed for the next challenge, as Colombia represent a sterner test. “We cannot relax now,” he warned. “Colombia are a strong team, and we need to be sharper in both attack and defense.”
With qualification hopes still in their hands, the Flying Eagles know that a win against Colombia will guarantee their passage into the knockout rounds. For Zubairu, the message is clear: the victory over Saudi Arabia was only the beginning, and consistency will be the key if Nigeria is to advance deep into the tournament.
