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Nigeria U20 head coach Aliyu Zubairu has outlined the three key strengths of South Africa that his Flying Eagles side must overcome in their semi-final clash at the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Footynaija.com reports.
Zubairu, speaking confidently ahead of the tie, praised South Africa’s physicality, defensive structure, and counter-attacking threat — while insisting Nigeria have done their homework and are ready to rise to the occasion.
“We’ve studied South Africa well,” Zubairu told CAF’s official website. “I watched their game against DR Congo. They’re physical, well-organised and dangerous on the counter—but we believe we have what it takes to win.”
The Amajita, South Africa’s U20 side, have caught the eye in the tournament with their tenacity and tactical discipline. But Zubairu remains firmly focused on his team’s own strengths and experience at this level.
❗️M A T C H D A Y!
— The NFF (@thenff) May 15, 2025
⚽️ Nigeria South Africa
Thursday , 15th May 2025
⏱ 16.00 hrs
Suez Canal Stadium
U20 Afcon
#SoarFlyingEagles
#NGARSA pic.twitter.com/3hw70IG0co
“We respect South Africa, but we’re focused on our own game. The goal is the final. We’ve been here many times. The players know what’s at stake,” he added.
The Flying Eagles have gathered momentum in the tournament with solid performances and clear signs of growth. Zubairu highlighted the team’s steady improvement match by match.
“You can see the improvement in every match,” he noted.
However, he acknowledged that there is still room for refinement — particularly in front of goal.
“We’ve worked on our finishing. We created chances, especially against Kenya and Senegal. We just need that final touch,” Zubairu admitted.
Nigeria and South Africa will lock horns in a high-stakes battle, with a place in the final and a shot at continental glory on the line. Zubairu’s belief in his team’s technical and mental strength remains unwavering.
