Nigeria’s U-20 national football team, the Flying Eagles, secured a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over hosts Egypt in a friendly match played on Tuesday in Cairo, ahead of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The warm-up fixture, held just weeks before the continental tournament kicks off, showcased Nigeria’s attacking potential and readiness for the competition. The 17th edition of the U-20 AFCON is scheduled to take place in Egypt from April 27 to May 18.
The Flying Eagles took an early lead in the 10th minute when Kparobo Arierhi finished off a slick move, slotting home calmly after a well-placed assist from Bidemi Amole.
Egypt fought back in the second half, drawing level in the 65th minute through Ahmed Kaabaka. However, Nigeria regained the upper hand late in the game when Precious Benjamin converted from the penalty spot in the 83rd minute after Divine Oliseh was brought down in the box.
The victory provides a confidence boost for Nigeria, who arrived in Egypt on Sunday to begin final preparations for the tournament. The seven-time champions are drawn in Group B, where they will face Tunisia in their opening match on Thursday, followed by fixtures against Morocco and Kenya.
The top four teams from the U-20 AFCON will earn qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in Chile from September 27 to October 19.
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