Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, is optimistic that the inclusion of foreign-based players will bolster his squad as they prepare for the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire. With Nigeria aiming for a record-extending eighth title, Zubairu believes a mix of local and international talent will create a formidable team capable of conquering the continent.

Nigeria recently played two friendly matches against Côte d’Ivoire, securing one win and suffering one loss. Despite the mixed results, the Flying Eagles remain on track with their preparations. The team will take a short break before regrouping in Abuja, where more reinforcements from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and abroad are expected to join.

“When we regroup, some foreign-based players as well as some players we scouted in Nigeria will join to get a formidable team,” Zubairu stated confidently after the game on Friday. “Four of our players from WAFU, like Kparobo and others, will certainly return. We are on course.”

Opinion: A Balanced Approach Needed for Success

Nigeria’s youth teams have traditionally thrived on homegrown talent, with the NPFL serving as a strong foundation for emerging stars. However, in recent years, foreign-based players have increasingly influenced the team’s performances, bringing tactical discipline and exposure to top-level football.

While integrating foreign players could elevate the squad, Zubairu must strike the right balance. Over-reliance on players raised abroad could overshadow the hunger and passion that homegrown players bring to the team. The ideal scenario is a seamless blend of both—leveraging the experience of foreign-based talents while maintaining the physicality and resilience of NPFL players.

With just months left before the tournament, the Flying Eagles must fine-tune their chemistry, tactics, and squad depth. Nigeria’s dominance in youth football is built on pedigree, but recent setbacks at the senior level serve as a reminder that preparation and squad unity matter more than history.

Can Zubairu lead Nigeria to yet another U-20 triumph? The pieces are coming together, but only time will tell if the Flying Eagles can truly soar in Côte d’Ivoire.