By Moses Amos
Coach Aliyu Zubairu has announced his 24-man Flying Eagles squad for the upcoming U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), unveiling a blend of domestic standouts and Europe-based talents in a team poised to reignite Nigeria’s dominance at youth level.
The squad, revealed on Thursday, reflects Zubairu’s focus on tactical balance and international experience, with players drawn from clubs across Nigeria, Europe, and even lesser-known footballing outposts.
At the heart of the squad are three goalkeepers: Ifeanyi Ebenezer Harcourt of Sporting Lagos, Rufai Abubakar from Mavlon FC, and Soliu Ajia Yakub, who plies his trade with FK Novi Pazar in Serbia. The trio will be jostling for the coveted No. 1 jersey as the tournament edges closer.
In defence, the gaffer has kept faith in both youth and grit. Bayelsa United’s Daniel Bameyi—who previously captained the side during the 2023 edition—returns to anchor a backline that includes Hoffenheim’s Emmanuel Chukwu and Katsina United’s Chigozie Michael Ihejiofor. El-Kanemi Warriors’ Adamu Maigari and Sporting Lagos’ Odinaka Okoro add local solidity.
Zubairu’s midfield selections are an intriguing mix of technique and tenacity. NK Uljanik Pula’s Caleb Ochedikwu and NK Istra’s Israel Isaac Ayuma, both based in Croatia, are expected to dictate tempo, while Wikki Tourists’ Shafiu Adamu Duguri and Mavlon’s Simon Cletus offer box-to-box energy.
Up front, there’s firepower in abundance. Germany-based Precious Benjamin of Hoffenheim leads the line alongside Clinton Jephta of Enyimba and Divine Oliseh from Forster Academy. Norway’s Lillestrom SK forward, Kparobo Nathaniel Arierhi, adds European flair, while Wireless FC’s Tahir Maigana and Niger Tornadoes’ Theophilus Mendos Rickson round out a potent attacking force.
Coach Zubairu, who took charge of the Flying Eagles earlier this year, praised the players’ commitment during the selection process, noting the “healthy competition” that made final decisions difficult. “This is a squad built not just on talent, but on hunger and character. We’ve got players who want to wear the green and white with pride,” he said during a media briefing.
The Flying Eagles, seven-time champions of the U-20 AFCON, will be looking to add another laurel to Nigeria’s rich footballing history when the tournament kicks off. With a side teeming with ambition and bolstered by international pedigree, Coach Zubairu’s team may well be one to watch.
As anticipation builds, Nigerians will hope that this generation of Flying Eagles can soar once more—this time, all the way to glory.
