Four key areas Flying Eagles coach must improve ahead of World Cup after U20 Afcon setback

Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu has vowed to overhaul his squad ahead of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup following Nigeria’s 1-0 semi-final defeat to South Africa at the ongoing U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). 

The loss, which came despite Nigeria dominating the game, exposed key weaknesses in the team that must be addressed for a credible showing on the global stage.

Here are four key areas Zubairu must improve before the World Cup:

1. Finishing and Composure in Front of Goal

The Flying Eagles’ wastefulness in front of goal was a recurring problem throughout the tournament and proved costly against South Africa. 

Despite creating numerous chances, the team lacked a clinical edge, with attackers failing to convert clear-cut opportunities. 

Zubairu must work on improving his players’ composure in high-pressure moments and consider bringing in more ruthless forwards capable of making the most of limited chances.

2. Squad Depth and Selection Consistency

Zubairu admitted after the loss that several players dropped after the WAFU B tournament were not up to standard, and some of the current squad members are also not ready for World Cup demands. 

This highlights a lack of depth and consistency in squad selection. To compete at the global level, the coach must identify a reliable core of players and build chemistry and trust over time, rather than constant experimentation.

3. Tactical Adaptability

While Nigeria often dominated possession and showed flashes of attacking intent, the team sometimes lacked the ability to adapt tactically during matches. 

Against South Africa, when it became clear the Amajita were growing in confidence, Nigeria failed to shift strategies or respond effectively. 

Zubairu needs to ensure the team is tactically flexible, able to switch formations and react to changing in-game dynamics.

4. Physical and Mental Resilience

The Flying Eagles appeared to struggle with maintaining intensity late in matches and lacked mental toughness when under pressure. 

Zubairu must work on improving the squad’s endurance and mental focus, especially during knockout games where composure is crucial.

With a ticket to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup already secured, Zubairu now has a valuable window to address these shortcomings. 

The Flying Eagles will next face Egypt in the third-place match on Sunday.

Wale Adejumo

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