Former Nigeria U20 star Evans Aneni believes the Flying Eagles have the talent and depth to capture the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations title.
Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s side takes on Kenya in their final group match at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium on Wednesday, needing at least a draw to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.
The West Africans began their campaign with a slim 1-0 win over Tunisia thanks to Auwal Ibrahim’s first-half effort before playing out a 0-0 draw with Morocco in a keenly contested affair.
Sitting second in Group B and yet to concede a goal, the Nigerian youngsters have impressed, and the former youth international is confident they can book their ticket to the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.
More importantly, he believes they can dethrone Senegal and end their 10-year title drought, clinching a record-extending eighth African crown.
“From what I’ve seen, they have the quality, talent, and determination to go all the way and win it (AFCON U20)”Is with me told Flashscore.
“This would also mean that they would secure a spot at the next FIFA U20 World Cup. They have the right players, coaching staff, and mindset to achieve something special.
“So, why not go for it? They shouldn’t hold back or fear anyone. With belief, hard work, and focus, they can make history and bring home the title they’ve waited so long for.”
If Nigeria finish with a 0-0 draw against already eliminated Kenya and advance with just one goal scored, it would be their lowest group-stage goal tally since 2001.
Although, unlike that year, they would still move on to the knockout stage.
Nigeria must look beyond Morocco draw
The Flying Eagles could have secured their spot in the quarter-finals with a win over Morocco in their second game.
Despite dominating much of the match, it ended in a draw. Nonetheless, the Vora FK star insists Zubairu’s side must focus on the task ahead.
“I think the Flying Eagles started strong and sent a real statement with their first game against Tunisia,” Animena’s Analysis.
“They could’ve done better against Morocco and taken all three points, but let’s be honest, the North Africans are a smart, tactical team, and it was a balanced match.
“Trust me, no one is in Egypt for a holiday; every team wants to win. Now, it’s time to move past that Morocco game, fix the little mistakes, and focus fully on what’s next starting with Kenya.
“I expect the Flying Eagles to come out sharp, show their quality, and push for the win.
“If they do that, they’ll top the group and send another big message. That’s how champions think; one game at a time, always forward.”
AFCON U20 key to Nigeria’s football growth
Aneni also discussed the significance of participating in the ongoing tournament for the growth of Nigerian football.
He continued: “The U20 tournament is crucial for showcasing Nigeria’s young football talents.
“Our country has an abundance of gifted young players, and this competition provides a platform for them to shine.
“For me, it’s vital in developing these talents and giving them the exposure they need to grow and succeed in the future.”
Nigeria have dominated Africa by winning the U20 Africa Cup of Nations a record seven times and have finished as runners-up at the FIFA U20 World Cup twice.
Their best performance came in 1989 and 2005 when the Flying Eagles reached the final but were narrowly beaten by Portugal and Argentina respectively, marking their closest attempt at the title.
