Former Nigerian international and Olympic gold medalist, Victor Ikpeba, has advised the Flying
Eagles not to underestimate any opponents as they gear up for the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of
Nations.
Speaking on Brila FM’s “No Holds Barred” with Ifeanyi Udeze, Ikpeba praised the team’s
qualification efforts.
“Our boys did well to qualify for the 2025 AFCON,” Ikpeba said. “We need to approach the tournament with the same fighting spirit and aim to at least reach the semifinals, which would secure a spot in the U20 FIFA World Cup.”
Ikpeba, also known as the “Prince of Monaco” during his playing days, expressed his confidence in the team’s preparation and coaching staff.
“I believe in the manager, and having watched the team train, I think they’re ready to go. They will make Nigeria proud.”
He also warned the players against complacency. “We must not underestimate any team, especially during the group stage,” he said. “We have to be mentally ready and give our all from the very first game.”
Nigeria is set to compete in Group B of the tournament in Egypt, facing Morocco, Tunisia, and Kenya. The Flying Eagles, who have won the competition a record seven times, will be looking to clinch an eighth title and qualify for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.
