Big blow for Aliyu Zubairu as Adamu Maigari ruled out of Nigeria’s World Cup squad

By Wale Mustapha

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles have suffered a major setback ahead of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, with key defender Adamu Maigari ruled out of the tournament through injury.

Maigari picked up the injury during the team’s training sessions and has been declared unfit to recover in time for the competition.

The right-back was a standout performer at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt, where Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s side finished third. He featured in all six matches at the tournament and was named Man of the Match once for his impressive display.

Losing Maigari is a major concern for Coach Zubairu, who had relied heavily on the youngster’s defensive stability and attacking support down the flank.

Meanwhile, the Flying Eagles are scheduled to travel to Chile on Sunday for their final phase of preparations before the World Cup kicks off.