WAFU U-20 tournament postponed, disrupting Flying Eagles’ World Cup preparation

By Dayo Awoniyi

The inaugural WAFU A&B U-20 Boys Cup of Nations, originally set to take place in Ghana from June 15 to 30, 2025, has been officially postponed, casting uncertainty over Nigeria’s U-20 team’s preparations for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA), hosts of the regional tournament, communicated the postponement to participating nations, citing the need to “ensure the best possible conditions for a successful event.”

A new date is expected to be announced in due course.

“We regret to announce that the WAFU A&B U-20 Boys Cup of Nations has been postponed. A new date for the tournament will be announced in due course,” the GFA said in a statement.

Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu had identified the WAFU tournament as a key part of Nigeria’s buildup to the global event. The squad has been in training camp in Abuja for the past week as part of early preparations.

The postponement disrupts the team’s schedule, potentially affecting tactical and match-readiness plans.

The tournament was expected to feature 16 national teams from WAFU Zones A and B, offering competitive match experience ahead of the World Cup.

The WAFU organizing committee is expected to provide revised timelines and logistical updates in the coming days.