By Milcah Tanimu
The Nigerian Flying Eagles have officially announced a 20-man squad for the upcoming WAFU Zone B U20 Cup of Nations in Togo. Under the guidance of Coach Aliyu Zubairu, the team is set to compete in Group B against Burkina Faso and Cote d’Ivoire. In contrast, Group A features Togo, Benin Republic, and Niger Republic.
Preparations and Test Matches
To ensure effective preparations, the Flying Eagles began their training in Abuja before moving to the Remo Sports Institute in Ikenne, Ogun State. During this training camp, they engaged in several test matches. For instance, they achieved a notable 4-1 victory over Seamorrow FC, which was crucial for fine-tuning their tactics ahead of the tournament.
Finalized Squad
Coach Zubairu has now finalized his squad, which comprises two goalkeepers, six defenders, six midfielders, and six forwards. Notably, key players include:
- Daniel Bameyi (Bayelsa United)
- Kenneth Igboke (Rangers)
- Charles Agada (Mavlon FC)
Changes in Roster
In a significant development, Daniel Daga, a standout from the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup, was initially named in the squad but has now been replaced by Muhammad Sabiu Ibrahim. Unfortunately, Daga is unavailable for the tournament because his Nigerian passport is currently with the Norwegian embassy. As a result, the team had to make this last-minute adjustment.
Match Schedule
The Flying Eagles will kick off their campaign against Burkina Faso at the Municipal Stadium in Lome on Friday, October 18, at 3 PM local time. Following this match, they will face Cote d’Ivoire three days later at the same venue. Furthermore, the tournament begins on Thursday, October 17, with Togo taking on Niger Republic at the Kegue Stadium. Ultimately, the top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals.
Flying Eagles 20-Man Squad
- Goalkeepers:
- Harcourt Ebenezar Ifeanyi (Sporting Lagos)
- Nwosu Nathaniel Ikechukwu (Nasarawa United)
- Defenders:
- Adamu Maigari Bajibir (El Kanemi)
- Daniel Bameyi (Bayelsa United)
- Kenneth Obinna Igboke (Enugu Rangers)
- Haruna Aliyu (Doma United)
- Musa Adamu (Wireless)
- Alabi Sulyman Olalekan (El-Kanemi Warriors)
- Midfielders:
- Raphael Oyebanjo (Shuffle)
- Muhammad Sabiu Ibrahim (Niger Tornadoes)
- Musa Akinfenwa (Real Sapphire)
- Israel Ayuma (NK Istra/Croatia)
- Nasiru Salihu (El-Kanemi)
- Forwards:
- Oliseh Divine (Forster FA)
- Charles Agada (Mavlon FC)
- Kparabo Arieri (Beyond Limits)
- Amole Bidemi Olalekan (Real Sapphire FC)
- Alonge Ibrahim (Central Football Academy)
- Clinton Jephta (Enyimba)
