Nigeria’s Flying Eagles coach, Aliyu Zubairu, has disclosed that several new players will be invited to the squad ahead of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, scheduled to take place from 27 September to 19 October 2025.
Speaking on Tuesday in Ilorin during the Kwara SWAN Hard Talk, Zubairu stated that the incoming players are expected to strengthen the team. He explained that the changes are necessary to address the challenges the squad faced during the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.
The coach acknowledged the team’s struggles, particularly in front of goal, and noted that the fresh additions would help bring greater balance and depth to the side.
“We will be inviting more players to strengthen all departments,” he said.
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The coach stressed the importance of correcting the notable shortcomings identified within the squad.
Despite the team’s narrow miss on the AFCON trophy, Zubairu commended their successful qualification for the upcoming World Cup, labelling it a remarkable accomplishment.
He pledged to exceed the notable achievement of Samson Siasia, who secured a silver medal with the Flying Eagles at the U20 World Cup final held in the Netherlands in 2005.
Zubairu attributed El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri’s disappointing performance in the 2024/25 NPFL season to a combination of disorganised mid-season player acquisitions and the departure of two crucial players to European clubs.
