'A lot of power and strength' – Norway coach warns of Flying Eagles physical threat ahead of World Cup

Norway’s U-20 head coach, Bjørn Johansen, has highlighted the physical strength of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles as one of the major factors his team will have to contend with at the upcoming 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

Following the official draw held in Santiago on Friday, Nigeria was placed in Group F alongside Norway, Colombia, and Saudi Arabia. 

Johansen, reacting to the outcome of the draw, expressed relief at avoiding what he described as the tournament’s “group of death.”

“Five of the six groups look pretty even and then Group C with Brazil, Spain, Mexico and Morocco stands out as a very tough group,” Johansen told the official website of the Norwegian Football Association. 

“We avoided it and now we get to test ourselves against opponents we haven't played against much before, including Nigeria who have a lot of power and strength.”

The Norwegian coach acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic about his team’s preparations. 

“We have plenty of time to improve on the teams we face and we are really looking forward to being part of a fantastic tournament.”

The Flying Eagles, two-time finalists at the U-20 World Cup, secured their qualification by finishing third at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations in Egypt. 

Known for their physicality and athleticism, the Nigerian side has long been respected for producing top talents who go on to shine at senior level.

This year’s tournament is scheduled to take place from 27 September to 19 October across various cities in Chile.

Nigeria will be aiming to surpass their previous best performances and claim a first-ever world title at this level.

Norway, who last featured in the U-20 World Cup in 2019, will be eager to prove themselves against high-profile opponents. Their upcoming clash with Nigeria promises to be one of the highlights of the group stage.

With four months to go before kickoff, all teams in Group F are expected to ramp up their preparations. 

But for Norway, the challenge posed by the Flying Eagles’ “power and strength” is already top of mind.

Wale Adejumo

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