“They showed real character” – Zubairu hails Nigeria’s display against Niger Republic

By Wale Mustapha

Head Coach Aliyu Zubairu lauded the character of Nigeria’s U20 men’s national team following their exhilarating 3-2 victory over Niger Republic in the WAFU B U20 Championship.

The Flying Eagles demonstrated remarkable resilience, coming back from an early setback to secure a spot in the final.

Clinton Jephta’s brace, alongside a goal from Olalekan Agagbe, fueled Nigeria’s comeback, allowing them to advance to the final and earn qualification for the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations in South Africa.

Zubairu expressed pride in his players, stating, “They showed real character to fight back and win the match, just as they did against Cote d’Ivoire.

“Although we were disappointed by our loss to Burkina Faso in our opening game, we’ve since regrouped and returned to form.”

The Flying Eagles will face Ghana’s Black Satellites in the championship final on Wednesday.