With a FIFA U20 World Cup ticket now safely in the bag, Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu says his boys are primed to deliver their best performance yet when they battle South Africa’s Amajita in Thursday’s semi-final clash at the CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Ismailia, Egypt.
The seven-time African champions sealed their place in the last four after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over defending champions Senegal on Monday.
Despite a tense 120 minutes, Nigeria held their nerve to triumph 3-1 on penalties, knocking the Cup holders out in thrilling fashion.
Speaking ahead of the high-stakes semi-final, Zubairu said the pressure has eased and the team is fully focused on claiming the continental crown.
“The tension of chasing a World Cup spot is behind us now. We can approach the South Africa match with more composure and focus. We’re determined to win and showcase a far better performance,” the coach said.
Zubairu, who famously guided El-Kanemi Warriors to a Federation Cup triumph last year, believes the squad has matured through the tournament and is peaking at the right time.
“You can clearly see the improvement from our first match against Tunisia. The boys are growing in confidence and playing better with each game,” he added.
The semi-final clash is more than just a game – it reignites the long-standing rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa.
The two nations have clashed at various stages of the tournament over the years, with Nigeria holding the upper hand, including a bronze medal victory in 2009 and a penalty shootout win in 2019.
South Africa, who booked their semi-final spot after a gritty 1-0 extra-time win over DR Congo, will have their hands full against a Flying Eagles side brimming with confidence and experience.
While Nigeria boasts a record seven titles and multiple podium finishes, the Amajita are still chasing their first continental crown since debuting in the competition in 1997. Their best outing remains a runners-up finish in that year.
Elsewhere, the second semi-final will see hosts Egypt – fresh from ousting Ghana – square off against Morocco in Cairo, promising another fiery encounter.
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