Flying Eagles await FIFA U-20 World Cup draw in Chile

By Dayo Awoniyi

Nigeria’s U-20 men’s national team, the Flying Eagles, are on high alert as anticipation builds ahead of Thursday’s FIFA U-20 World Cup group stage draw.

The draw, which will be held in Santiago, Chile, will determine the group-stage fate of the Nigerian side, who secured qualification with a semi-final finish at the 2023 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations in Egypt.

Joining Nigeria at the global tournament are fellow African representatives Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa, all of whom booked their tickets with strong showings at the continental competition.

With a storied history in the FIFA U-20 World Cup — including two runner-up finishes in 1989 and 2005 — Nigeria will be aiming to finally clinch the elusive title when the tournament kicks off later this year.

As the Flying Eagles await their group opponents, preparations are expected to intensify, with technical staff focused on refining strategies and scouting potential rivals once the draw is completed.

The outcome in Santiago will chart the team’s path toward what they hope will be a historic campaign on the global stage.