Nigeria Begin WAFU B Title Defence
By FRED LONGJOHN OBEH
NIGERIA’S Flying Eagles are set for another major test as they open their WAFU B U-20 Championship campaign against Ghana’s Black Satellites in Côte d’Ivoire.
The fixture brings together two traditional rivals with a rich football history. It also offers Ghana an opportunity to avenge their 2-1 defeat to Nigeria in the 2024 tournament final.
Defending champions Nigeria are aiming to win the regional title for the third tournament in a row. The Flying Eagles believe a positive result in their opening game will boost their confidence for the rest of the competition.
Head coach Abdul Maikaba will take charge of the team in his first competitive match. He has insisted that nothing less than three points will satisfy the defending champions.
The Flying Eagles arrive in good form after defeating Athletique Club de Zenuola 2-1 in a pre-tournament friendly. The victory provided a timely boost as the squad completed preparations for the championship.
Nigeria’s impressive record at youth level makes them one of the favourites for the title. But Ghana remain a formidable opponent with a proud tradition of success in African youth football.
The result of the opening game could prove crucial in the battle for qualification from Group B, where Togo and Burkina Faso are also competing. Nigeria will face Togo in their second match before taking on Burkina Faso in their final group fixture.
The Flying Eagles know the road to another regional title begins with overcoming one of their oldest rivals. A victory over Ghana would send a strong message that Nigeria remains the team to beat in the competition.
