The Nigeria U20 national team, the Flying Eagles, are set to face Water FC of Abuja in a friendly match on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. The match, scheduled for 7:30 AM at the FIFA Goal Project in Abuja, is part of the Flying Eagles’ preparation for the 2024 WAFU B U20 Championship.
The Flying Eagles, two time World Cup silver medalists, resumed camp last Thursday under the watchful eye of Head Coach Aliyu Zubairu. The upcoming friendly will help the coaching team assess the squad and make any necessary adjustments before the crucial tournament.
Editorial
The Flying Eagles‘ friendly against Water FC is an important step in their preparation for the WAFU B U20 Championship. As the team builds momentum for the upcoming qualifiers, this match offers a chance for the coaching staff to evaluate the players and make tactical decisions. It’s also a significant opportunity for the players to prove their worth and earn a spot in the final squad.
Under the leadership of Coach Sanni Subair and with input from the coaching crew, the game will serve as an important test for the invited players as they gear up for the zonal qualifiers. The WAFU B U20 Championship, set for October/November in Togo, will determine the zone’s representative for the Africa U20 Cup of Nations next year.
With strong teams like Benin, Ghana, and Ivory Coast in the mix, Nigeria’s U20 side must use every friendly match to refine their strategies and build cohesion. The coaching staff, led by Aliyu Zubairu, has a clear challenge ahead: to build a team capable of representing the zone and performing well at the Africa U20 Cup of Nations.
Did You Know?
- The Flying Eagles are two time FIFA U20 World Cup silver medalists, finishing as runners-up in 1989 and 2005.
- The WAFU B U20 Championship is a regional competition that serves as a qualifier for the Africa U20 Cup of Nations.
- Nigeria’s U20 team has a storied history, with stars like Mikel Obi and Taye Taiwo earning accolades in the 2005 U20 World Cup, where they finished second to Argentina.
- Water FC of Abuja is known for developing young football talents and frequently engages in high level friendly matches.
- The 2024 WAFU B U20 Championship will take place in Togo, with teams from West Africa competing for a spot in the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations.
