Flying Eagles Finalise Squad for 2025 U-20 World Cup

Nigeria’s U-20 side, the Flying Eagles, have submitted their final squad for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile. The list includes Stade Reims midfielder Ibrahim Hafiz and Molde’s Daniel Daga, both expected to strengthen coach Aliyu Zubairu’s options.

The team will soon depart from Abuja to begin their preparations abroad. With a blend of home-based and Europe-based players, the Flying Eagles are aiming to rekindle past as they gear up for the global tournament.

Editorial

We see the submission of this squad as more than a procedural step it is a declaration of intent. With coach Aliyu Zubairu selecting a mix of domestic and international players, Nigeria signals its ambition to compete at the very highest level.

We believe that the inclusion of players like Ibrahim Hafiz and Daniel Daga highlights the importance of exposure to European football. Such experiences offer tactical maturity and adaptability that can be decisive in tournament football.

We also recognise the logistical hurdles that have dogged youth camps—namely, club release issues for foreign-based players. Yet despite these challenges, the squad traveling from Abuja embodies a determined effort to assemble the best possible team under current constraints.

We hold firm to the idea that this squad will define not just a campaign, but a pathway. Their performance in Chile will reflect the strength of Nigeria’s youth development systems and inspire the next generation of Flying Eagles. We began this journey believing in them, and we remain hopeful they will rise to the challenge.

Did You Know?

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2. A Flying Eagles squad list was previously submitted for the 2025 U-20 AFCON in Egypt, which also served as the African qualifier for the World Cup.
   
   
3. Daniel Daga plays for Norwegian side Molde FK, offering Norwegian league experience to the Nigerian youth team.
   
   
4. Ibrahim Hafiz is affiliated with Reims in France and has drawn attention for his composure and midfield vision at youth levels.
   
   
5. The Flying Eagles have won the U-20 AFCON a record seven times, making them the most successful team in the competition’s history.
   
   
6. Because of club release agreements, some foreign-based players may arrive late at the training camp in Abuja, a recurring challenge for youth national sides.