As Nigeria’s Flying Eagles prepare for the upcoming FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, head coach Aliyu Zubairu has revealed plans to strengthen the team with new player additions.
Speaking in Ilorin during the Kwara SWAN Hard Talk, Zubairu said the technical crew is already scouting for talents to address tactical shortcomings exposed during the last U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The coach admitted that the team struggled with converting chances at the AFCON in Morocco, where they fell short of clinching the title. According to Zubairu, the attacking department is a key area of concern, and efforts are underway to inject quality forwards who can improve the team’s goal-scoring ability.
“We identified some critical issues during the AFCON, especially in the final third. Our finishing needs to be sharper, and that’s why we’re opening up the team to new players in all departments,” Zubairu stated.
Despite the setbacks at the continental championship, Zubairu described Nigeria’s qualification for the World Cup as a major success. He remains optimistic about the team’s chances and pledged to lead the squad to surpass previous records, including the silver medal finish under Samson Siasia in 2005.
VIDEO: KOGI GOVERNMENT HOUSE LAUNCHES MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Zubairu also addressed domestic football matters, particularly the struggles of his club side, El-Kanemi Warriors, in the ongoing 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season. He attributed their poor form to a lack of cohesion among recent signings and the departure of two key players to European clubs.
With the World Cup drawing closer, the Flying Eagles boss reiterated the importance of fielding a well-balanced and competitive squad. He expressed confidence that the right blend of new talent and existing core players would give Nigeria a fighting chance on the global stage.
