"We’ll Play with Determination and Composure" — Zubairu Eyes Flying Eagles Triumph Over South Africa

Flying Eagles coach Aliyu Zubairu has assured Nigerians that his team will approach Thursday’s semi-final against South Africa with greater composure and determination as they target a place in the final of the 2025 CAF U20 Cup of Nations in Ismailia.

Nigeria sealed a dramatic 3-1 penalty shootout win over defending champions Senegal in the quarter-finals on Monday after a tense 120 minutes. With a FIFA U20 World Cup ticket now secured, Zubairu believes the pressure is off and his side can play with more freedom.

“We now have the World Cup ticket and are quite happy about it. Against South Africa, we will play with great determination and composure as we aim for the trophy,” said Zubairu. “The anxiety is gone, and our approach will be much better. We understand the rivalry with South Africa and we are preparing for a real battle.”

Zubairu, who guided El-Kanemi Warriors to the President Federation Cup title last year, noted that the Flying Eagles have grown stronger since their tournament opener against Tunisia on May 1.

“The team has been progressing and getting better with each match. We will go all out against the South Africans,” he stated.

South Africa's Amajita also endured extra time in their quarter-final, edging DR Congo 1-0 at the same Suez Canal Authority Stadium. The fixture sets up another high-stakes chapter in a competitive history between the two nations.

Nigeria, the most successful team in U20 AFCON history with seven titles, has consistently outshone South Africa in the competition. The Flying Eagles defeated Amajita on penalties to win bronze in 2019 and earned another bronze in 2009 with a 2-1 win over the same opponent.

South Africa, meanwhile, have never lifted the U20 AFCON title. Their best finish came in 1997 when they ended as runners-up to hosts Morocco, a tournament Nigeria missed.

The second semi-final will feature hosts Egypt, four-time champions, taking on Morocco in Cairo.

With history and momentum on their side, Nigeria will look to maintain their dominance as they chase an eighth continental crown.