Flying Eagles captain Daniel Bameyi says the team is ready to give their all as they face Kenya in their final group match at the ongoing U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
Speaking ahead of the must-win game, Bameyi stressed the importance of securing a quarter-final ticket. The match also marks Nigeria’s 100th appearance in the history of the U-20 AFCON.
“There’s no room for jokes. It’s business time,” said Bameyi, who was named Player of the Match in the team’s last outing—a goalless draw against Morocco. “We want to top the group, and we will fight with everything we’ve got.”
He also appreciated the support from Nigerians. “We thank our parents, brothers, and sisters. Keep praying and supporting us. It’s not over yet,” the 19-year-old added.
After two group matches, Nigeria sit second in their group with four points, the same as Morocco, who lead on goal difference. Tunisia are third with three points and still have a chance to qualify if they beat Morocco in their final group game, which kicks off at the same time as Nigeria vs. Kenya.
Reflecting on the draw against Morocco, Bameyi said, “We believed we would win. We wanted early qualification, but we thank God for the result.”
The team’s next goal is to reach the semi-finals, which will secure them a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup scheduled to take place in Chile later this year.
Nigeria is one of the most successful teams in the history of the U-20 AFCON, having won the title seven times (1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 2005, 2011, and 2015) and finishing as runners-up twice.
