Match preview: Nigeria U20 vs Senegal U20 – Flying Eagles narrow in on Teranga Cubs

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles are set to battle the Teranga Cubs of Senegal in the quarterfinals of the  ongoing TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations at the Ismaila Stadium, Ismaila, Egypt on Monday, May 12, Footynaija.com reports.

Going by the history books, the Flying Eagles are the undisputed kings of this tournament courtesy of their seven triumphs at this level. However, they are set to face a familiar foe in Senegal, who boast the upper hand in recent clashes between these two prestigious African footballing nations.

With the already existing rivalry in mind, the game holds the potential to be an absolute firecracker as both teams are sure to go all out for a win that will see the victor earn some bragging rights as well as a place in the upcoming FIFA U20 World Cup later this year.

Nigeria vs Senegal: Group stage journey

Nigeria

Nigeria have had a fairly solid run in the group stage, going unbeaten in all three matches. They kicked off their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Tunisia, setting a positive tone. Their second outing, however, lacked excitement, ending in a goalless stalemate against Morocco. 

In their final group match, the Flying Eagles delivered a more entertaining performance, battling to a 2-2 draw with Kenya. With five points from three matches, Nigeria finished second in the group, just behind Morocco, who topped the standings with seven points following two wins and a draw.

Senegal

Senegal’s route to the knockout stage was far less straightforward. The Teranga Cubs began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against the Central African Republic, followed by a disappointing 1-0 loss to Ghana. Those results left their qualification hopes hanging by a thread. 

However, they bounced back in their final group fixture, delivering a crucial 2-0 victory over DR Congo. That win lifted them into second place and sealed their passage to the quarterfinals, despite an overall challenging group phase.

Nigeria vs Senegal: H2H

Nigeria and Senegal share a rich history at youth level, with their rivalry dating back to the 2015 CAF African Youth Championship held in Senegal. The Flying Eagles claimed bragging rights in both encounters that year — a 3-1 group stage win followed by a 1-0 triumph in the final to lift the trophy on Senegalese soil. 

However, the tide has turned in recent years. The Teranga Cubs have dominated the fixture since then, winning each of the last four meetings, including a 3-2 victory at the All Africa Games last year. As they prepare to meet again, Nigeria will be aiming to halt Senegal’s winning streak and reassert their superiority in this West African showdown.

Prediction 

This clash promises to be a tightly contested affair, with neither side holding a clear upper hand. Nigeria’s dynamic frontline has the potential to unlock any defense, but their vulnerability at the back remains a concern. 

On the other hand, Senegal bring tactical maturity and recent dominance in head-to-head encounters, which could prove decisive. 

However, if Nigeria can stay organized and maintain their attacking intensity, they stand a real chance of turning the tide. Expect a close battle that may come down to moments of composure and discipline in both boxes.

Footynaija.com predicts a 2-1 win for the Flying Eagles.

Key Players

Nigeria will depend on the likes of highly rated striker Kparobo Areirhi, who scored his first goal of the tournament against Kenya as well as midfield general Yusuf Ibrahim, who grabbed the Flying Eagles’ only goal in their opener against Tunisia.

For Senegal, Cheikh Tidiane Thiam and Ibrahima Dieng have been their main men so far and the Teranga Cubs will be needing them to once again come to the fore.

Match details 

Fixture: Nigeria U20 vs Senegal U20

Tournament: TotalEnergies CAF U20 AFCON

Venue: Ismailia Stadium, Ismailia, Egypt

Date: Monday, May 12, 2025

Kick-off: 12:00 GMT (1:00 PM Nigeria Time)