Flying Eagles Of Nigeria Eye Winning Start As They Face Norway In U20 World Cup Opener

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will open their 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup campaign tonight with a crucial clash against Norway at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca in Chile.

Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 WAT.

Head coach Aliyu Zubairu has stressed the importance of starting the tournament on a strong note, insisting that victory in the opening game would boost his players’ confidence for the battles ahead.

“We are very much prepared. In every competition, the first match is very, very important because if you can get the first match right, it’s going to give you more focus, raise the confidence level of the boys, and strengthen our footing in the competition,” Zubairu told the team’s media.

The Flying Eagles, seven-time African champions, are making their 14th appearance at the global showpiece. Twice in their history they have come close to glory, finishing runners-up in 1989 and 2005.

They reached the quarter-finals in the last edition held in Argentina and will be eager to go further this time around.

Norway, meanwhile, will be playing in their fourth U20 World Cup. Under coach Bjorn Johansen, the Young Vikings are determined to finally break their group-stage jinx and establish themselves among the world’s best.

Nigeria’s squad heading into this tournament blends local talent with Europe-based prospects. Between the sticks, Ebenezer Harcourt of Sporting Lagos, Clinton Ezekiel of Bayelsa United, and Mavlon FC’s Rufa’i Abubakar are tasked with keeping things tight.

Defensive stability is expected from Ocheche Amos Onyejefu of Stade de Reims and Bayelsa United’s Daniel Bameyi, who captains the side.

Midfield creativity will flow through Molde FC’s Daniel Daga and Croatia-based Israel Ayuma.

In attack, Royal Antwerp’s Achichi Oseer, Lillestrom’s Kparobo Arierhi, and AS Trencin forward Sani Suleman are expected to lead the charge for goals.

Alongside Norway, the Flying Eagles will also face Saudi Arabia and Colombia in Group D. A win in Talca could put them in pole position to navigate the group and mount a serious challenge for the title.