Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu has pledged that his team will deliver their best performance in the U20 AFCON qualifying semifinal against Niger on Saturday, according to Sportblog247.com.

Reflecting on their progress, Zubairu acknowledged the team’s growth and adaptability, citing their improved display in the decisive 2-1 win over Cote d’Ivoire.

“The boys were jittery in the first game, and that’s normal in an opening match. But today, we saw a much-improved team,” Zubairu commented post-match.

The Flying Eagles started the tournament with a 1-0 loss to Burkina Faso but rebounded with a hard-fought comeback against the Ivorians, securing their place in the knockout stages as Group B leaders, thanks to goal difference.

During the clash, Cote d’Ivoire opened the scoring early in the second half. However, Enyimba winger Clinton Jephta swiftly equalized, and striker Kparobo Arierhi, cleared to play after a late fitness test, netted the winner. Goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt also played a crucial role, making several key saves to maintain Nigeria’s lead.

As Group B winners, Nigeria now faces Niger, the Group A runners-up, with both finalists earning a spot in the U20 AFCON, scheduled for January in South Africa.

“We can’t compromise – we have to qualify for the U20 AFCON,” Zubairu affirmed.