Nigeria’s Flying Eagles head coach Abdu Maikaba says the team’s player screening process is now finished, with preparations ramping up for the upcoming WAFU U-20 Championship in Côte d’Ivoire.
Screening completed as focus turns to squad building
Speaking after the squad trained on the previous day at the FIFA Goal Project Pitch in Abuja, Maikaba indicated that the camp’s next stage will centre on selecting and shaping a group that can carry Nigeria’s standards into the tournament.
He said attention has moved beyond trials and now focuses on putting together a challenging, balanced side with the ability to protect the country’s standing as regional champions.
“The screening exercise has been completed and we are now focused on building a strong and competitive team,” the coach stated.
Championship doubles as a route to continental qualification
The WAFU U-20 Championship will not only determine regional honours, but will also act as a qualification route for the next U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, which is scheduled to be staged in Ghana in the early part of next year.
High expectations for Nigeria’s bid to stay on top
With that pathway in mind, Nigeria—who have won the African title seven times—are expected to intensify their preparations over the coming weeks. The aim is to keep their dominance in the West African zone and position themselves for yet another appearance on the continental stage.
The Flying Eagles are viewed as one of Africa’s most decorated youth outfits, and anticipation is set to remain high as they begin their push toward another major competition.
