Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Flying Eagles Coach Outlines Key Principles for Final FIFA U20 World Cup Squad Selection


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Flying Eagles Coach Outlines Key Principles for Final FIFA U20 World Cup Squad Selection

By Niyi Busari 

Head coach of Nigeria’s U20 men’s national team, Aliyu Zubairu, has revealed the criteria that will shape his final 23-man squad list for the upcoming FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with BSN Sports, the former El-Kanemi Warriors manager explained that players will be assessed based on three key factors—physical strength, mental resilience, and tactical intelligence.

“Our guiding philosophy in selecting players is based on three major things: physical strength and presence, mental strength, and tactical ability, including intelligence both on and off the ball,” Zubairu told BSN Sports.

The coach further highlighted that while overall preparations have been positive, goal scoring remains a priority area as the Flying Eagles fine-tune their plans.

“I think our preparation has been very good, even though we are moving at a gradual pace. The most important area of focus is goal scoring, which we identified as a challenge during the U20 AFCON. We are not placing too much emphasis on tactics yet since the full squad is not complete, but we are paying attention to other critical areas,” he added.

Nigeria, two-time finalists at the U20 World Cup, are among Africa’s four representatives at this year’s edition, alongside South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt.

The Flying Eagles have been drawn into Group F alongside Colombia, Saudi Arabia, and Norway. The tournament will run from September 27 to October 19 across four Chilean cities—Rancagua, Santiago, Talca, and Valparaíso.

Group Stage Draw

Group A: Chile, Egypt, Japan, New Zealand

Group B: Korea Republic, Panama, Paraguay, Ukraine

Group C: Brazil, Mexico, Morocco, Spain

Group D: Argentina, Australia, Cuba, Italy

Group E: France, New Caledonia, South Africa, USA

Group F: Colombia, Nigeria, Norway, Saudi Arabia

Niyi
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Niyi Busari

Niyi Busari is the Publisher, CEO of BSN Sports Concept.

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