Ahead of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, Nigeria’s U-20 men’s football team, the Flying Eagles, landed in Talca, Chile, Thursday afternoon.
Together with Norway, Saudi Arabia, and Colombia, the two-time World Cup finalists are in Group F. All of their games will take place in Talca.
After being welcomed by FIFA representatives, the Local Organising Committee, and hotel personnel, the Eagles checked into the Hotel Diego de Almagro.
Later, to begin last-minute preparations, the team had their first training session in the evening.
Ali Zubair, the head coach, promised that the Africa U-20 Cup of Nations campaign had taught them valuable things.
“We are now better prepared for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile after correcting the mistakes that cost us at the AFCON,” he stated.
The Flying Eagles played two international friendlies during a 12-day training camp in Santiago prior to their arrival in Talca.
Nigeria trounced Australia 3-1 on Tuesday after drawing 1-1 with Chile, the host country.
On Monday, September 29 at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca, the Flying Eagles will play their first game of the season against Norway. They will next play Saudi Arabia and Colombia.
According to reports, Nigeria’s U20 team has established a solid reputation as one of Africa’s most successful junior teams since making its debut in 1983.
In 1989, the Flying Eagles lost to Portugal, and in 2005, they lost to Lionel Messi’s Argentina, finishing second. Additionally, they have made it to the semifinals several times.
In the past, the competition has produced future Nigerian players like Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, Taye Taiwo, and Mikel Obi.
