2023 U-20 AFCON – Flying Eagles make statement of intent

The Flying Eagles are looking to win the tournament for the eighth time, and they are upbeat about their chances 

Nigeria's Under-20 team, the Flying Eagles, have stated that their target is to qualify for the World Cup and win the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

The Flying Eagles are in Egypt for the U-20 AFCON. Asides from the glory of winning the trophy, the competition also serves as the qualification process for the World Cup later in May this year.

Nigeria has won the competition seven times, and they will be looking to make it eight in Egypt. The team was camped in Morocco for a week, where they played two friendly games against Congo-Brazzaville and Kawkab Athletic(U-20), which they won.

The Flying Eagles play Senegal on Sunday in their opening game of the tournament. Nigeria's other group opponents are Egypt and Mozambique.

Ahead of the tournament, the captain of the team Daniel Daga is upbeat about Nigeria's chances.

“We(Nigeria) are proud to be in Egypt for this great tournament, and we want to qualify for the FIFA World Cup and win the tournament,” the Dakkada FC midfielder said per CAF Website.

There are three groups, and the top two from each qualify. There are also two spots for the best third-place teams.

The four semifinalists will qualify for the World Cup in Indonesia.