The stage is set for Nigeria’s Flying Eagles as they prepare for the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with Côte d’Ivoire officially confirmed as the tournament host. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) made the announcement during its congress in Marrakech, Morocco, finally putting an end to months of speculation.

The 2025 U20 AFCON is scheduled to kick off on April 26, 2025, and will feature 12 of Africa’s best youth teams. Interestingly, Côte d’Ivoire’s selection as hosts raised eyebrows, as the Ivorians did not qualify for the tournament. The decision followed unsuccessful hosting bids from Egypt and South Africa.

For Nigeria, this confirmation marks the beginning of crucial preparations. The Flying Eagles enter the tournament with confidence, having secured their place by winning the WAFU B U20 Championship last October. A thrilling 2-1 victory over rivals Ghana in Lomé, powered by a brace from rising star Kparobo Arierhi, underlined Nigeria’s strength and hunger for success.

Historically, the Flying Eagles are one of the continent’s strongest youth teams, with three U20 AFCON titles to their name, though their last triumph came nearly a decade ago in 2015. Rivals Ghana remain the most successful team in the competition with four titles, setting up an enticing challenge for Nigeria in Côte d’Ivoire.

The tournament will showcase teams from across the continent, including Nigeria, Ghana, Morocco, Egypt, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Congo, DR Congo, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Zambia.

With preparations underway, the Flying Eagles will look to reclaim their continental dominance and inspire the next generation of Nigerian football stars.