2025 U-20 AFCON: Zubairu Plans Squad Overhaul

Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, has taken full responsibility for his team’s defeat to the Amajita of South Africa even as he promised massive squad overall for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Zubairu’s side lost 1-0 to the Amajita of South Africa in their semi-final contest at the ongoing 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations on Thursday.

Tylon Smith scored the decisive goal for South Africa from a header in the 66th minute.

The Flying Eagles dominated the game but were let down by their poor finishing.

“I take full responsibility for our failure to reach the final. As head coach, the blame rests on me,” Zubairu said during his interaction with the media after the game.

“This tournament has helped us identify the players capable of stepping up to the next level and those who are not. After our WAFU B success, we dropped many players because their quality wasn’t sufficient for the continental stage.

“A similar review will happen again. It’s clear that some of the current squad members aren’t ready for the demands of a World Cup.”

The Flying Eagles will take on hosts Egypt in the third- place match on Sunday.