A former Nigeria coach has suggested that heavyweights South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco are worried about the Flying Eagles ahead of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
The highly anticipated tournament is set to take place from 26 April to 18 May 2025, with Nigeria drawn into Group B alongside three of the continent's football powerhouses — South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco.
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With only three groups in the competition, the top two teams from each group will secure a spot in the quarter-finals, along with the two best third-placed teams.
The ranking of the third-placed sides will be calculated after excluding results against the fifth-placed team in Group A.
Beyond continental glory, the four semi-finalists will also qualify as Africa's representatives for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, adding extra incentive for teams to go all the way.
Group B is undoubtedly a 'group of death,' with all four nations eager to secure at least a semi-final berth and claim one of the coveted World Cup spots.
Former Flying Eagles head coach John Obuh believes Nigeria's rich footballing history makes them a team to fear in the competition.
"I'm sure that if you ask any South African, Egyptian, or Moroccan football expert, they'll tell you that Nigeria is one of the teams they are worried about in the group," Obuh told Completesports.com, as per Soccernet.ng.
"Football in Africa has evolved — there are no more minnows. Nigeria has a strong football heritage, especially in this tournament.
"However, that doesn't mean we can afford to be complacent. Other countries have improved, and there are no underdogs anymore. The team that prepares better and works harder will have the edge in the group."
Obuh emphasised that the primary objective should be securing a spot at the U20 World Cup before setting sights on winning the tournament.
"But first, we must qualify for the World Cup by reaching the semi-finals before thinking about the U-20 AFCON title," he concluded.
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