Flying Eagles Set for Double-Header Friendly Against Cote d’Ivoire

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will face Cote d’Ivoire in a two-legged friendly next week, as part of their preparations for the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The first match is scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, while the second will take place two days later. Both encounters will be held in Abidjan, the Ivorian capital.

Preparation for AFCON and U-20 World Cup

The Flying Eagles were initially set to battle Egypt in a similar friendly series, but the fixture was cancelled after both nations were drawn in the same group for the upcoming U-20 AFCON.

Cote d’Ivoire, the tournament hosts, will welcome Africa’s best young talents when the competition kicks off on April 26 and runs until May 18. The top four teams from the tournament will secure tickets to represent Africa at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

Flying Eagles Eye a Statement Performance

With Coach Aliyu Zubairu leading the team, the Flying Eagles will aim to fine-tune their squad and identify their strongest lineup ahead of the competitive fixtures. The team is expected to depart Abuja for Abidjan on Monday, February 24.

Opinion: A Crucial Test for Nigeria’s Young Stars

This friendly against Cote d’Ivoire presents a valuable opportunity for Nigeria’s U-20 squad. Facing a team that will be playing on home soil during the AFCON will test the Flying Eagles’ resilience, tactical discipline, and squad depth.

For Zubairu’s boys, a strong performance in these friendlies will boost their confidence ahead of the highly competitive U-20 AFCON, where a place in the World Cup is at stake.

Can the Flying Eagles soar high in Abidjan? Share your thoughts! ⚽👇