Flying Eagles Finalise Squad Screening, Maikaba Begins Title Defence Mission

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles head coach Abdu Maikaba has completed his player screening exercise as preparations intensify for the upcoming WAFU B U-20 Tournament.

Maikaba’s team began their training camp earlier this month in Abuja, where several young players were assessed for places in the squad that will represent Nigeria at the regional competition.

The experienced coach has now selected the players he believes can help the Flying Eagles defend their title when the tournament kicks off in Côte d’Ivoire next month.

Nigeria are the defending champions of the WAFU B U-20 competition, having won the last two editions, and will be aiming to maintain their dominance in the region.

The tournament will also serve as the qualification route for the 2027 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, which will be hosted by Ghana early next year.

Opinion: Maikaba’s biggest challenge now begins after the screening process. Selecting talented players is one step, but building a balanced team with strong chemistry and winning mentality will determine whether Nigeria can continue their success at youth level.

The Flying Eagles have a proud history in African youth football, and another strong campaign could provide the platform for the next generation of Nigerian stars to emerge.