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Former Africa Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba has thrown his support behind the Flying Eagles ahead of their crucial final Group B clash against Kenya at the 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria sit level on four points with group leaders Morocco—separated only by goal difference—while Tunisia trail closely on three points after defeating Kenya 3-1.
A draw would be enough for Nigeria to progress to the quarter-finals, but a win could see them finish top if Tunisia avoid defeat against Morocco.
“I think they should go out there and get the job done,” Ikpeba told SuperSport’s Monday Night Football as per Sporting Life.
“They should be able to beat Kenya and qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. I wish the team all the best against Kenya.”
The match kicks off at 4:00pm local time on Wednesday at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo. It will be the first-ever meeting between Nigeria and Kenya at U-20 AFCON level.
Despite losing both of their group games—3-2 to Morocco and 3-1 to Tunisia — Kenya have shown attacking promise, scoring first in both matches. The Rising Stars may be out of contention, but they’ll aim to restore pride with a spirited display.
Statistically, Nigeria boast the best defence in Group B, having yet to concede, but their attack has struggled — scoring just once in two matches with a conversion rate of only 6.25%. In contrast, Kenya have a more efficient attack, converting 14.29% of their shots and registering a group-high 11 shots on target.
Daniel Bameyi will be key for Nigeria again after an impressive display against Morocco. Meanwhile, Lawrence Ouma — who has scored in both games — remains Kenya’s main threat.
Both coaches favour variations of the 4-2-3-1 system, but Nigeria’s disciplined pressing may prove decisive in a match where fine margins could determine who marches into the last eight.
