The Flying Eagles of Nigeria play the Junior Carthage Eagles of Tunisia in their opening game of the 2024 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations at the June 30 Stadiun in Egypt today.
Both teams enter this fixture with a bit of uncertainty since most the players are pretty much unknown. The Flying Eagles have claimed the title seven times, but it's an entirely new setup now with new players. As such, the game could easily swing anywhere.
Earlier, Soccernet.ng spotlighted five Tunisian players who could give Nigeria a tough time. Now, in this article, we spotlight five Flying Eagles players who could make a difference.
Daniel Bameyi
The defender is no stranger to playing for Nigeria. He is a veteran in the team, as he played at the 2023 Under-20 World Cup. Bameyi is solid and very vocal on the pitch. He is also very strong despite his small stature. He will get an extra motivation to lead the Flying Eagles to victory as he is the captain. The Tunisians carry a major threat on the wings but with Bameyi, Nigeria need not fret.
Kparobo Arierhi
Kparobo Arierhi is another player that coach Zubairu can bank on. He currently plies his trade for Norwegian club Lillestrom and looks destined for greatness. Arierhi is quick, strong, can use the ball well, and packs a great shot. He scored in the team's last friendly game against Egypt last week, and he also scored three goals at the WAFU B Championship. Arierhi will look to take that momentum into the game against Tunisia.
Ajia Yakub
If the Flying Eagles are going to beat Tunisia, they would need a trustworthy hands in between the sticks, and Ajia Yakub gives them that. The Novi Pazar is very calm in goal, and his presence on the team gives them some assurance. Coach Zubairu will hope that he remains solid for the Flying Eagles.
Divine Oliseh
Oliseh is another trusted lieutenant that coach Zubairu can trust. The forward is very nifty and can create problems for defences. Whether he starts or gets off the bench, he could be a potential game-changer for the Flying Eagles.
Precious Benjamin
Precious Benjamin is another player who is expected to turn on the screws for Nigeria. The Hoffenheim-based attacker is quick, smart and quite technical. Judging from the last game against Egypt, he will also be the assigned penalty taker for the team. If he has a good game, he could be a real thorn in the flesh if the Tunisians.
