CAF: Nigeria Yet To Qualify For 2025 U17 AFCON



Despite the expansion of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to 16 teams, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets have not yet qualified for the 2025 edition of the tournament. This announcement puts to rest any speculation about the team’s status following their failure to advance from the WAFU B qualifiers in Ghana last year.

CAF provided clarity on Monday while unveiling details about the upcoming competition. The governing body highlighted the list of confirmed participants but made it clear that Nigeria is not among them. The statement comes amid growing discussions about potential pathways for the five-time world champions to secure a place.

"Mali and Nigeria have each appeared in 10 finals tournaments since 1995, the most by any nation. This includes the 2025 edition in Morocco, where Mali has qualified but Nigeria has not," CAF stated on its official website. The confirmation contradicts earlier reports suggesting that Nigeria had been granted an automatic spot due to the expanded format.

So far, 10 teams have secured qualification for the tournament, leaving six open slots. However, CAF has not indicated whether Nigeria will be granted another opportunity to compete for a place in the competition. The situation remains uncertain, and the Golden Eaglets’ participation will depend on any further directives from the governing body.

The failure to qualify through the WAFU B championship was a major setback for Nigeria, given the country’s strong history in youth competitions. The Golden Eaglets have won the U17 AFCON twice and remain the most successful team at the FIFA U17 World Cup with five titles. Their absence from the tournament would be a significant blow to Nigerian football development.

With the tournament draw expected later this month, all eyes will be on CAF’s final decision regarding the remaining qualification slots. Nigerian football authorities will be hoping for a lifeline to ensure the country’s representation in Morocco next year.

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