As Nigeria’s Flying Eagles get ready for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile in 2025, a new generation of gifted youth will represent the country internationally.
The current Flying Eagles team, which includes both domestic stars and Europe-based prodigies, is teeming with potential that will be released in Chile at 9 p.m. (WAT) tonight, September 29, when they play Norway in their World Cup opening.
Here are the best Flying Eagles players to watch:
Daniel Daga, from Molde, Norway
Since he first gained attention at the age of sixteen with his brave midfield performances at Argentina 2023, Daga has been a household name. Before moving to Norway, the 18-year-old Molde midfielder played frequently for Enyimba, giving him a wealth of experience.
This season, Daga has played in 12 league games and scored two goals. He is anticipated to give Nigeria the leadership, poise, and tactical knowledge it needs to succeed in Chile.
2. Arierhi Kparobo (Lillestrom SK, Norway)
Arierhi’s growth has been faster than that of many Nigerian attackers. After being found in Victor Ikpeba’s five-a-side competition in Warri, he gained notoriety at Beyond Limits Football Academy, where he won the TCC title with 22 goals in 15 games.
With two goals in the final match against Ghana, he was Nigeria’s leading scorer at the WAFU B tournament. Arierhi’s ability to score goals could be crucial at the World Cup, especially after a loan stint with Mjondalen IF helped him hone his skills.
3. AS Trencin, Slovakia’s Sani Suleman
Suleman is a prime example of someone who rose quickly. Just over a year ago, he won Rookie of the Season after scoring 11 goals in 19 NPFL games to keep Akwa United afloat.
He has already helped out with two goals and an assist in five games this season for AS Trencin. The 18-year-old, who is renowned for his flexibility, is one of Nigeria’s most potent threats since he can move fluidly between midfield and attack.
4. Nigeria’s Remo Stars’ Akinyele
Fans and commentators have been demanding that Akinyele be given the opportunity to perform on the main stage. With a league title and CAF Champions League experience, the Remo Stars center-back is widely considered one of the best defenders of his time in the NPFL.
The Flying Eagles will benefit from his tactical knowledge and ability to create play from the back, which will provide them with defensive stability and formation flexibility.
5. Nigeria’s Bayelsa United’s Daniel Bameyi
The uncertainty surrounding his Argentina 2023 call-up has been lifted as the skipper makes his second appearance at the U-20 World Cup.
Bameyi has silenced his detractors with powerful, reliable performances since he became a mainstay at Bayelsa United. His leadership and composed demeanor at the back make him an essential member of Nigeria’s campaign, as seen by his inclusion in the U-20 AFCON Best XI.
6. Ebenezer Harcourt, who plays for Sporting Lagos in Nigeria
As a big-game goalie, Harcourt has already solidified his reputation. In the U-20 AFCON quarterfinal, he made two legendary penalty saves against Senegal, and his earlier stop in the 53rd minute demonstrated his quick reflexes under duress.
The Sporting Lagos goalie combines youth and experience, having also played for the CHAN Eagles. His calmness between the sticks could make the difference in a high-stakes competition like the World Cup.
