Flying Eagles captain Daniel Bameyi has expressed strong belief that Nigeria’s U-20 side can go all the way to lift the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations title — a trophy that has so far eluded the country.

Aliyu Zubairu’s boys got off to a rocky start in the tournament after a narrow 1–0 loss to Norway, a result that raised questions about the team’s readiness. But the young Eagles showed resilience, bouncing back with a thrilling 3–2 victory over Saudi Arabia, a match that had fans on edge until the final whistle.

Bameyi, the team’s defensive anchor and captain, proved the hero of the night, calmly converting a stoppage-time penalty to seal the much-needed win.

“I’m happy we got the three points after losing the first game,” he told FIFA.com.
“Nothing is impossible in football. It’s a tournament that my country hasn’t managed to win yet, and I think we’ve got the quality in our squad to do what it takes.”

Nigeria’s next test comes against Colombia on Monday, and only a win will secure their passage to the knockout stage.

Opinion: Belief Is the First Step Toward Greatness

Bameyi’s words may sound optimistic, but they carry the spirit that has long defined Nigerian football — grit, belief, and pride in the green and white. The Flying Eagles have a history of producing dazzling talents and moments of pure magic, but consistency and composure have often been their Achilles’ heel in continental tournaments.

The win against Saudi Arabia showed not just their fighting spirit, but also a glimpse of leadership and determination that could take them far. Bameyi’s confidence isn’t just youthful enthusiasm — it’s a reflection of a team slowly finding its rhythm.

If the boys can carry this momentum into the clash against Colombia and maintain their focus, there’s every reason to believe Nigeria can finally break the jinx and claim the elusive U-20 AFCON crown.

Because sometimes, victory begins not with the whistle — but with belief.