Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, has dismissed concerns that Nigeria’s U-20 team has been placed in a “group of death” for the upcoming 2024 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.
Nigeria, aiming for a record-extending eighth continental title, has been drawn into Group B alongside Tunisia, Kenya, and Morocco. The new grouping follows a revised draw prompted by the withdrawal of former hosts, Côte d’Ivoire. Originally, the Flying Eagles had been placed in a group with Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco.
Speaking after the draw, which took place ahead of the tournament’s kickoff on April 27, Zubairu stressed that preparation—not the draw—will determine the team’s success. “We’re not under any pressure,” he said, adding that the immediate goal is securing qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
The seven-time African champions are scheduled to depart for Egypt this week for an eight-day final preparation camp before the competition begins.
