Egypt U-20 head coach, Osama Nabih has applauded his players despite their 2-1 defeat to Nigeria, on Tuesday, in a friendly match ahead of the U-20 AFCON.
The match served as the final tune-up for both teams ahead of the 2025 U-20 AFCON, which kicks off this weekend in Egypt.
Despite being on the losing end, Nabih insisted that his team performed admirably and were unfortunate not to have come away with a better result.
Nigeria took the lead just 10 minutes into the game through Norway-based striker Kparobo Arierhi, who has been in fine form since helping the Flying Eagles win the WAFU B U-20 Championship last October.
Egypt responded with determination and intensity. Their efforts were eventually rewarded in the 68th minute when Ahmed Kaabaka fired home a superb equaliser following an impressive team move.
However, the Flying Eagles regained the lead late on, as Precious Benjamin converted a penalty in the 84th minute after Divine Oliseh was fouled in the box.
“We faced a strong and well-organized team,” Nabih told the Egypt Football Association’s official website. “Our players delivered one of the most valuable and intense experiences from all technical, tactical, and physical aspects.”
He continued, “They controlled the game and posed a real threat despite conceding early. They managed to respond well, and Kabaka scored the equaliser in the 68th minute with a brilliant strike following a lovely team move.
“We could have won, but missed several scoring chances before Nigeria scored their second from the penalty spot six minutes from time.”
The Young Pharaohs will compete in Group A of the 2025 U-20 AFCON alongside Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania.
Nigeria, coached by Aliyu Zubairu, are drawn in Group B and begin their campaign against Tunisia next Thursday.
