'Afcon was not what we wanted' - Lillestrom loanee on Flying Eagles mission at U20 World Cup

Lillestrom loanee Kparobo Arierhi has expressed confidence ahead of Nigeria’s opening match at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

The tournament, which promises to showcase the world’s top youth talents, sees the Flying Eagles drawn in a group alongside Colombia, Saudi Arabia, and Norway.

Speaking to Ademola Victor TV, Arierhi outlined the team’s preparation and mindset ahead of the competition. 
"It has been really good. The boys and I are really preparing and doing our best, trying to learn new things in training which we can execute in the tournament.

"I strongly believe that we are ready for this and can give our best and do what we know how to do best," he said.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s historic run to the U-20 World Cup final in 2005, Arierhi admitted that past disappointments continue to motivate him and his teammates.

"The AFCON was not exactly what we wanted, but now we have the opportunity to play the World Cup.

"I believe we are going to give everything to make our country proud, as well as ourselves and our families," he added.

Arierhi, who plays club football in Norway, highlighted the unique challenge of facing the host nation in the group stage.

"It’s really nice playing Norway because I know some of my friends who also play for their national team. It’s going to be great to compete against them on the pitch, and we will do everything possible to get points," he said.

The Flying Eagles are expected to field a determined squad as they aim to make an impact on the world stage, building on Nigeria’s rich tradition in youth football.

With the team’s preparation reported to be intense and focused, all eyes will be on Arierhi and his teammates when they take on Norway in their opening clash on Monday.

Wale Adejumo

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