U-20 AFCON: Observations from Nigeria’s goalless draw against Morocco

The Flying Eagles of Nigeria and the Atlas Cubs of Morocco played out a goalless draw in their second Group B match at the ongoing 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

It wasn’t a game that showcased the best of attacking football. Both sides cancelled each other out, with the defenders of both sides coming out on top.

Soccernet.ng highlights observations from the game at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium as Aliyu Zubair’s side aim to finish their group on a high.

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1. Flying Eagles struggled to create chances

The seven-time African Champions were restricted to shots from long range, especially in the second half, as their opponents were very compact in defence, similar to the game against Tunisia.

Nigeria troubled the Moroccan goalkeeper a few times in the first half, but the chances weren’t clear-cut as the shots came from acute angles.

It was a clash full of grit, but in the end, neither Morocco nor Nigeria could find the killer touch in front of goal.

2. Daniel Bameyi solid

Originally a right-back by trade, the Bayelsa United defender put in a true captain’s performance yesterday. He was superb in the air, winning aerial duels while making clearances to thwart the threats Morocco brought forward. He was Nigeria’s best player on the pitch last night.

With Troost-Ekong and Semi-Ajayi entering into the final phases of their International career, it would be pivotal to slowly integrate Bameyi into the Super Eagles team as he possesses immense potential to be a top defender in future.

3. Qualification on hold

With both sides playing a draw, Morocco remains top of the group due to a slight goal difference. They now have to wait until their final group game to seal their qualification to the knockout stages.

Up next for Morocco will be a North African duel against Tunisia on Wednesday, with a simultaneous fixture seeing Nigeria taking on Kenya.