U20 Afcon Morocco 0 Nigeria 0: No breakthrough in Cairo as Flying Eagles held by Atlas Cubs

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles were forced to settle for a 0-0 draw against Morocco in their second Group B match at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, played at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo on Sunday evening.

Following their opening-day victory over Tunisia, Aliyu Zubairu’s team hoped to build momentum with another strong performance.

However, they encountered a well-organised Moroccan side that dominated stretches of the match and threatened to snatch all three points.

Nigeria started brightly, showing intent through early runs and pressing. Clinton Jephtah and Precious Benjamin looked lively upfront, but clear-cut chances were limited. 

The best moment of the first half for the Flying Eagles came in the 39th minute, when Israel Ayuma drove into the Moroccan box and delivered a teasing square ball, only for the North Africans to clear the danger.

Morocco gradually grew into the game and came close just before the break, forcing Nigerian goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt into a couple of anxious moments. 

Defender Daniel Bameyi stood out with key interceptions, leading his backline with composure and grit.

The second half saw Morocco assert more control, particularly in midfield, where Nigeria struggled to maintain possession. 

Harcourt was briefly floored after a collision but recovered to continue. A dangerous Moroccan header from a set-piece in the 65th minute flew just wide, providing a scare for the Nigerians.

Zubairu introduced Suleman Alabi and Kparobo Arierhi to inject fresh energy into the team, but Nigeria remained second best in terms of possession and rhythm. 

Still, the Flying Eagles displayed resilience, with Bameyi and Chukwu making vital clearances during a tense final ten minutes.

In added time, tempers flared as both teams committed fouls in a desperate bid to gain control. But despite the urgency, neither side could find a breakthrough.

The result keeps Nigeria unbeaten in Group B with four points from two matches. 

While they remain in contention for a knockout spot, improvements in midfield control and attacking efficiency will be crucial in their final group game against Kenya.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: CAF

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