Akwa Ibom State FA Hails Flying Eagles on World Cup Qualification Urges Team to Win U-20 AFCON Trophy

The Akwa Ibom State Football Association has congratulated Nigeria’s U-20 national football team, the Flying Eagles, on their qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile following their dramatic victory over Senegal in the quarter-finals of the ongoing CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

In a nerve-racking encounter played on Monday, the Flying Eagles edged Senegal 3-1 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time. Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt emerged the hero of the night, pulling off two crucial saves during the shootout to seal Nigeria’s place in the semi-finals and book a ticket to the global stage.

Reacting to the achievement, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Mr Samuel Umoh, praised the team for their resilience, determination, and fighting spirit, which he described as worthy of national pride.

Mr Umoh, who is part of the Nigerian delegation to the U-20 AFCON in Egypt, expressed his delight while speaking from Cairo, where he has been following the tournament closely.

“This is a proud moment for Nigeria football. The Flying Eagles have once again proven the strength of our youth football system by qualifying for the U-20 World Cup. Their display against a tough Senegalese side was full of character, especially after what happened two years ago. I commend Coach Aliyu Zubairu, the technical crew, and every player for this outstanding achievement.”

Mr Umoh, however, urged the team not to rest on their laurels but to set their sights on winning the continental title for the eighth time.

“This victory is a huge step forward, but the job is not done yet. We must now aim to win the U-20 AFCON trophy. Doing so will not only boost our morale ahead of the World Cup but also remind the rest of Africa that Nigeria remains a force in youth football.”

The FA Chairman also commended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for its consistent support of the team and called on stakeholders to rally behind the Flying Eagles as they prepare for their semi-final clash.

The Flying Eagles’ triumph over Senegal marks a significant turning point, particularly as it comes two years after a painful group-stage loss to the same opponents. Nigeria, who finished third in that edition, will now look to go all the way and reclaim the title they last won in 2015.

With a World Cup ticket secured and momentum on their side, the Flying Eagles are now just two matches away from lifting the coveted U-20 AFCON trophy once again.