Flying Eagles Set to Face Chile and Australia in Pre-World Cup Friendlies

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will step up their preparations for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup with two tune-up games against Chile and Australia, TalkTalk Nigeria reports.

The seven-time African champions will lock horns with Chile in their first friendly on Saturday at a yet-to-be-named venue, before taking on Australia next week Tuesday.

Aliyu Zubairu’s boys jetted out to Chile on Sunday night, continuing their final lap of preparations for the global showpiece after a month-long training camp in Abuja.

The Flying Eagles will battle it out in Group F of the World Cup against Norway, Colombia, and Saudi Arabia, a group that promises both challenges and opportunities.

Opinion: Early Tests That Could Define Their World Cup Story

These friendlies are more than just warm-up matches—they are the perfect litmus test for the Flying Eagles’ readiness on the global stage. Facing Chile and Australia offers a blend of styles: the grit and tactical discipline of South American football and the physical, fast-paced energy of the Aussies.

For Aliyu Zubairu, this is the stage to sharpen his squad’s cohesion, test tactical flexibility, and identify the players who can rise to the occasion under pressure.

The Flying Eagles have a rich history at the U-20 level, but history alone won’t win games. What Nigeria needs now is belief, discipline, and a dash of youthful brilliance. If they can take lessons from these friendlies into Group F, there’s every chance the Flying Eagles won’t just participate in the World Cup—they’ll soar into the knockout stages with pride and purpose.

✨ In short: These tune-up games are not just about fitness—they’re about building confidence, character, and the fearless mentality Nigeria has always been known for on the world stage.