Nigeria’s Flying Eagles were held to a goalless draw by Morocco in their second Group B match of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo.
After a 1-0 win over Tunisia in their opening match, Aliyu Zubairu’s boys came up against a determined Moroccan side that matched them in every area.
Though there were no goals, the game offered several talking points. Here are three takeaways from the tightly contested encounter:
1. Defensive Solidity Remains a Strength for Nigeria
For the second straight match, Nigeria kept a clean sheet, showing that their backline is one of the most organised in the tournament.
Captain Daniel Bameyi, who deservedly went home with ths Man of the Match award, led the defensive unit with calm and discipline.
This kind of defensive control is needed for knockout-stage football, and Nigeria’s success in shutting out the Junior Atlas Lions’ attack will boost their confidence going forward.
2. Nigeria’s Attack Need to be More Clinical
While the Flying Eagles had moments of promise going forward, their final third decisions often let them down.
This is gradually becoming concerning, given that the match against Tunisia was won only by a single goal scored in the first half. Against the Junior Atlas Lions, Clinton Jephta and the rest of the forwards did their bit, but there was no clinical touch. The coaching crew may have to make adjustments ahead of the must-win clash with Kenya.
3. Qualification Still in Nigeria’s Hands
Despite the draw, Nigeria remain in a strong position with four points from two matches. Morocco also have four points, while Tunisia and Kenya are still in contention.
The Flying Eagles will now shift focus to their third group match against Kenya where, all other things being equal, a positive result will not only secure qualification but also help them top the group.
With one eye on the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, Nigeria will need to be more clinical and decisive when it matters most.