Nigeria vs South Africa: How the Flying Eagles can avoid a slip-up

The Flying Eagles have marched into the semi-finals of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations unbeaten, but Thursday’s clash against South Africa is no ordinary tie, Footynaija.com reports.

The match promises to test Flying Eaglesʼ focus, composure, and finishing power. With a place in the final at stake, the team must tighten all loose ends and stick to the basics that have brought them this far.

Aliyu Zubairu’s boys opened the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Tunisia, followed by a goalless outing against Morocco. They found rhythm in the final group match with a 2-2 draw against Kenya, then edged out Senegal on penalties after another 0-0 battle. While the defensive structure has looked solid, scoring goals has been a concern.

So how can the Flying Eagles avoid a costly slip-up in Ismailia?

1. Take Their Chances

The team has created decent chances in every game, but their conversion rate has been below average. Against Kenya, Nigeria had 17 shots but only managed to score twice.

Kparobo Arierhi and Daniel Bameyi showed sharpness in that match, but against Senegal, Nigeria failed to hit the net after 120 minutes. If they are to beat South Africa, they must be clinical in front of goal. One chance might be all is needed to decide the game.

2. Avoid Casual Passing in Midfield

Tunisia and Senegal both pressed Nigeria’s midfield well and forced a few loose balls. The likes of Caleb Ochedikwu and Divine Oliseh must maintain composure in tight spaces and make quicker decisions. South Africa love to capitalise on sloppy transitions and could punish Nigeria if the midfield is not sharp.

3. Win the Flank Battles

South Africa’s Thabang Mahlangu, who scored the winner in their quarter-final against DR Congo, is dangerous on the wings. Flying Eagles full-backs Odinaka Okoro and Maigari Adamu need to stay alert. Tracking back and staying compact without leaving space behind will be important.

4. Improve Set-Piece Delivery

The Flying Eagles have won several corners and free-kicks in advanced positions, but their delivery has lacked accuracy. A good set-piece could be Nigeria’s best bet if the game becomes tight.

5. Stay Calm Under Pressure

South Africa are aggressive and fast, especially in the opening stages. Nigeria must avoid rushing decisions early in the game. Zubairu’s boys handled the pressure well in the penalty shootout against Senegal. That mentality needs to stay intact. And there should be no room for panic.