Nigeria’s U-20 national team, the Flying Eagles, return to action today as they face Kenya in their final Group B match of the ongoing CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
The match holds high stakes for Nigeria, who need just a draw to book their spot in the quarterfinals.
However, a win could see them finish as group leaders, provided the other group game between Morocco and Tunisia ends in a draw or a Tunisian victory.
Led by Head Coach Aliyu Zubairu, the Flying Eagles currently sit second in Group B after a narrow 1-0 win over Tunisia in their opener and a goalless draw against Morocco.
Nigeria have been defensively solid, boasting the best defence in the group with zero goals conceded. However, their attack remains a concern they’ve managed just one goal in two matches, the lowest in the group.
Wednesday’s encounter against the Junior Harambee Stars of Kenya will mark Nigeria’s 100th appearance at the U-20 AFCON, a major milestone for the seven-time champions.
Kenya, meanwhile, have nothing left to play for but pride. They have lost both of their matches so far 3-2 to Morocco and 3-1 to Tunisia and are already out of the tournament.
Despite their elimination, the East Africans will likely aim to end their campaign on a high note.
This will be the first-ever U-20 AFCON meeting between Nigeria and Kenya. For the Flying Eagles, a draw takes them to five points and guarantees qualification to the last eight regardless of the Morocco-Tunisia result.
Match Details:
Fixture: Nigeria U-20 vs Kenya U-20
Tournament: CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025
Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Kick-off: 4:00 PM (local time)
Venue: 30 June Air Defence Stadium, Cairo, Egypt
The Flying Eagles will be keen to celebrate their tournament milestone with a strong performance and safe passage into the knockout stages.