Flying Eagles to fine-tune World Cup preparation with fiery encounters vs. regional rivals

Nigeria's U-20 national football team, the Flying Eagles, will play friendly games against Benin and Niger Republic before they depart for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Argentina, Soccernet.ng understands.

According to the head coach, Ladan Bosso, the team is scheduled to leave for an extended training camp in Argentina on Saturday, May 6. The two friendlies will be played next week.

The Flying Eagles, two-time finalists in the U-20 World Cup, have been drawn in Group D alongside Brazil, Italy, and Dominican Republic. The team's opening game is against the Dominican Republic in Mendoza on May 21.

Speaking to reporters, Bosso revealed that the team planned to play against Benin and Niger Republics. 

Bosso said, “We plan to play against Benin and Niger Republics even though they won’t be part of the World Cup.

“We will also play some friendlies in Argentina for the team to blend with the foreign professionals.”

The Flying Eagles will use the friendly games to prepare for the World Cup, which runs from May 21 to June 12, 2023.

The FIFA U-20 World Cup is a prestigious tournament that showcases some of the best young football talents from around the world.

Nigeria have a rich history in the competition, having reached the final twice, in 1989 and 2005. The Flying Eagles will aim to make history by lifting the trophy for the first time.