Flying Eagles defender, Emmanuel Chukwu says the team is ready for their 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a crucial clash against Tunisia on Thursday.
Chukwu emphasized the importance of starting strong and laid out the squad’s clear ambition for the tournament.
“First of all, I understand the importance of this game as it’s the first match,” Chukwu said. “Our coaches have told us how to prepare and how to go about it.”
“We know we’re not going for anything short of three points. We’re going to collect the three points in the first game. So, we are ready and we are on it.” per allnigeriasoccer.com.
Chukwu, who has been a steady presence in defence for the Flying Eagles, also spoke on the team’s larger goals, noting that qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup is the immediate priority before setting sights on the continental trophy.
“Like our coach said. The aim is to get the ticket to the World Cup first, and then we look forward to taking the trophy home,” he added.
The young defender urged Nigerians to stand behind the team with prayers and encouragement.
“Our message back home is that they should continue praying for us and encouraging us. We will do our best here as we play this tournament.”
Nigeria will face Tunisia on Thursday in their Group B opener, a match that could shape the momentum of their campaign.
The fixture also carries historical weight, the two nations met in the 1985 final, with Nigeria winning over two legs.
Most recently, the Flying Eagles hammered Tunisia 4-0 in the 2023 third-place playoff in Egypt.
But history aside, both teams come into this tournament with fresh ambitions and for Chukwu and his teammates, anything less than a winning start will not suffice.
