Zubairu Praises Flying Eagles’ Mental Strength After Senegal Victory
Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, has praised his players for showing the mentality of champions after their dramatic quarter-final win over Senegal at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations.
Nigeria beat defending champions Senegal 3-1 on penalties on Monday at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia, after a goalless draw in 120 minutes of tough, energy-sapping football.
The result sent Nigeria into the semi-finals of the tournament and also secured their qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Speaking after the match, Zubairu was full of praise for his players’ discipline and composure.
“We trained for this moment. Every possible scenario was prepared for — including penalties,” he said.
“The boys stuck to the plan and executed it when it mattered the most. That’s what champions do.”
Zubairu also applauded the unity and focus within the squad, insisting that while the win was important, the mission is not yet complete.
“This is a big win for Nigeria, but we are not celebrating yet,” he added.
“We came here with a goal — to qualify for the World Cup and challenge for the title. One box is ticked, now we keep pushing.”
Nigeria, who are seven-time champions of the U-20 AFCON, will now face one of the remaining teams in the semi-finals as they look to win their first continental title since 2015.
