Nigeria will return to the FIFA U-20 World Cup™ after reaching the semi-finals of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations following a thrilling penalty shootout victory over defending champions Senegal in the last eight.
At the continental finals in Egypt, the Flying Eagles secured their 14th appearance at the global showpiece with their run to the semis. After losing 1-0 to eventual champions South Africa, they went on to defeat Egypt 4-1 on penalties in the bronze medal match.
Nigeria are seeking their first FIFA U-20 World Cup title after reaching the final in both 1989 and 2005. At Argentina 2023, they were knocked out by Korea Republic in the quarter-finals.
Nigeria’s Group F fixtures
29 September
Norway-Nigeria (17:00 local time, Estadio Fiscal)
2 October
Nigeria-Saudi Arabia (20:00 local time, Estadio Fiscal)
5 October
Nigeria-Colombia (20:00 local time, Estadio Fiscal)
The coach: Aliyu Zubairu
Aliyu Zubairu was appointed head coach of the Flying Eagles in September 2024 amidst a successful spell at Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri, whom he led to the President Federation Cup.
A respected tactician, the soft-spoken coach previously coached Wikki Tourist of Bauchi and Gombe United in both the top-flight NPFL and second-tier Nigerian National League (NNL). Zubairu left the Warriors following the expiration of his contract in June.
Star player: Daniel Bameyi
The Nigeria captain was named to the Best XI at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations following a stellar performance at the continental tournament. The central defender, who is still 19, is preparing for his second FIFA U-20 World Cup after leading the Flying Eagles to the quarter-finals at Argentina 2023.
Such is his promise that Bameyi has already been capped three times by the senior national team. Known for his leadership qualities and defensive prowess, he currently plays for NPFL club Bayelsa United FC.
One to watch: Kparobo Arierhi
The scoring sensation moved to Norwegian top-flight side Lillestrom in February on a four-year deal after impressing for NNL side Beyond Limits Football Academy, where he scored a staggering 22 goals in just 15 matches, including three hat‑tricks. He had reported interest from the likes of Lyon and Aston Villa.
The 18-year-old broke out internationally at the 2024 WAFU U-20 Championship and was a key part of the national team squad at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, converting a penalty in the 2-2 draw with Kenya in the group stage. He has been gaining valuable experience at Mjondalen IF, whom he has joined on loan.
Picture credits: CAF
