A 16-year-old football prodigy from Maiduguri, Borno State, Tahir Maigana has secured a position in Nigeria’s U-20 national team ahead of the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.
Maigana’s exceptional football talent earned him a space in the competitive team as the African nations prepare for the age-grade tournament.
It would be recalled that Maiduguri had faced significant challenges due to the Boko Haram insurgency, which has displaced many residents and resulted in numerous Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.
Currently playing for Wireless Football Club in Abuja, Maigana is celebrated for his natural left-footed skills, creativity, and vision on the pitch.
Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s decision to include Maigana highlighted the young athlete’s potential to make a substantial impact on the continental stage.
In an interview, the young talent expressed his excitement, saying, “This is a dream come true for me. I have always wanted to represent my country on such a big stage.
“I am ready to give my all and make my family and my community proud.” He added, “Despite the challenges we’ve faced, I believe we can achieve great things together as a team,” he stated.
The 2025 U20 AFCON is set to begin from April 27 to May 18, featuring 13 nations competing for the championship and four spots to qualify for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
Nigeria finds itself in Group B, alongside Morocco, Tunisia, and Kenya as the Flying Eagles will begin their tournament on May 1 against Tunisia, followed by matches against Morocco on May 4 and Kenya on May 7.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals, with the best third-placed teams also having an opportunity to progress.
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