By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu has said his team will now push to win the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations trophy after securing a place at the World Cup, Prompt News reports.
The nine-time African champions edged out Senegal 3-1 on penalities in their quarter-final contest in Ismailia on Monday.
“This is a big win for Nigeria, but we are not celebrating yet. We came here with a goal — to qualify for the World Cup and challenge for the title. One box is ticked, now we keep pushing,” Zubairu declared.
In the semifinal, they will face the Amajita of South Africa.
The coach said they were prepared all possibilities against the defending champions.
“We trained for this moment. Every possible scenario was prepared for — including penalties. The boys stuck to the plan and executed it when it mattered the most. That’s what champions do,” he saluted.
“They’ve matured through every game — tactically, mentally, emotionally. That’s the true development path, and I’m proud of every single one of them.”
