The Flying Eagles will take on tournament hosts Egypt in the third-place match of the 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday, May 18, at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo. Both teams will look to end their campaigns on a high note following disappointing semifinal exits.
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles were edged out 1-0 by South Africa’s Amajitas in a tightly contested clash, despite dominating much of the match. A goalkeeper mistake proved costly, allowing South Africa to capitalize and score the winning goal.
The Flying Eagles now aim to salvage pride in the bronze medal game, which offers an opportunity to bury the pain of a third consecutive semifinal defeat.
Egypt, meanwhile, are still reeling from their semifinal defeat to Morocco. The Young Pharaohs had hoped to win a fifth continental title on home soil but were undone by a disciplined Moroccan side.
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They too will view Sunday’s match as a final chance for redemption and a boost heading into the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, which both nations have already qualified for.
Flying Eagles players
Historically, Nigeria have finished third six times, while Egypt have achieved the feat three times. A win for the Flying Eagles would earn them a record seventh third-place finish at U-20 AFCON. The team had looked promising throughout the tournament, notably knocking out reigning champions Senegal in the quarterfinals.
The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams eager to end their campaigns on a high note. The Flying Eagles will be looking to avenge their pre-tournament friendly loss to Egypt, which they won 2-1 earlier. A repeat result on Sunday would be a fitting end to their campaign.
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Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s team will aim to build on their strengths and address areas of improvement as they prepare for the World Cup. The Flying Eagles’ participation in the World Cup is a significant opportunity for the team to showcase their skills and represent Nigeria with pride.
