Flying Eagles coach, Aliyu Zubairu has taken full responsibility for his team’s defeat to South Africa in their semi-final encounter at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations.
Recall that INFORMATION NIGERIA reported that Nigeria lost 1-0 to the Amajita at the Suez Canal Stadium, Ismailia on Thursday.
Addressing newsmen in a post-match interview, Coach Zubairu, noted that he will overhaul the squad ahead of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
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The Flying Eagles manager also acknowledged that his side have been struggling in front of goal.
He said: “I take full responsibility for our failure to reach the final. As head coach, the blame rests on me.
READ MORE: U20 AFCON: South Africa Beat Flying Eagles To Reach First Final In 28 Years
“This tournament has helped us identify the players capable of stepping up to the next level and those who are not. After our WAFU B success, we dropped many players because their quality wasn’t sufficient for the continental stage.
”A similar review will happen again. It’s clear that some of the current squad members aren’t ready for the demands of a World Cup.
“Our biggest problem has been poor finishing. We’ve created chances but failed to convert them.
“Everyone knows Kparobo Arierhi is a clinical striker, and we relied on him heavily. Unfortunately, he couldn’t deliver here. That said, he remains a quality player—this just wasn’t his tournament.”
