Egypt U20 head coach Osama Nabih says his side drew major positives from their 2-1 loss to Nigeria's Flying Eagles in a friendly match ahead of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Young Pharaohs took on Nigeria’s Flying Eagles at the Cairo International Stadium in what was their final tune-up before the continental tournament begins on home soil this weekend.
Goals from Kparobo Arierhi and Precious Benjamin handed Nigeria a narrow but deserved win, while Ahmed Kaabaka was on target for Egypt in an entertaining and competitive fixture.
Despite the result, Nabih expressed satisfaction with the level of performance from his players, insisting the match offered vital experience in preparation for the U20 AFCON, which runs from April 27 to May 18.
The top four teams from the tournament will qualify for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.
“We faced a strong and well-organised team,” Osama Nabih said after the game.
“Our players delivered one of the most valuable and intense experiences from all technical, tactical, and physical aspects.
“They controlled the game and posed a real threat despite going behind early. They managed to respond well, and Kabaka scored the equaliser in the 68th minute with a brilliant strike following a lovely team move.
“We could have won, but missed several scoring chances before Nigeria scored their second from the penalty spot six minutes from time.”
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Nabih added that several of his players were playing at the Cairo International Stadium for the first time, making the experience even more important ahead of Sunday’s group opener against South Africa. He also commended their energy, resilience, and ability to cope with Nigeria’s intensity and attacking transitions.
The match was watched by Egyptian FA board members Walid Darwish and Mostafa Abuzahra, as well as team manager Alaa Nabil.
Kparobo Arierhi gave Nigeria the early lead in the 10th minute, finishing off a fine pass from Bidemi Amole. Arierhi had starred at the WAFU B U20 Championship last year, scoring three goals including a brace in the final against Ghana.
Egypt hit back through Kaabaka in the 65th minute, but Nigeria sealed the win when Precious Benjamin calmly slotted home from the penalty spot in the 83rd minute after Divine Oliseh was brought down in the box.
Aliyu Zubairu’s Flying Eagles will begin their Group B campaign against Tunisia on Thursday, followed by matches against Morocco and Kenya. Nigeria need to reach the semi-finals to book a spot at the 2025 U20 World Cup.
