Nigeria: The full squad for the U20 AFCON

Seven-time African champions at the U-20 level, Nigeria are targeting their eighth continental title at the upcoming tournament in Niger, scheduled from February 2 to 17. Head coach Paul Aigbogun has unveiled a 21-man squad composed entirely of home-based players, with a mix of experienced talents and promising youngsters.

Among the notable inclusions is Akpan Udoh, a 2015 U17 World Cup winner who is currently unattached to any club. His presence adds both pedigree and experience to the squad, as Nigeria looks to assert its dominance in the tournament. The squad also features players already making their mark in domestic competitions, alongside a few with experience abroad.

The team will kick off their campaign against Burundi on February 2, before taking on South Africa on February 5 and host nation Niger on February 8. With a challenging group ahead, Aigbogun will be hoping his selections can blend youth and experience effectively to secure Nigeria’s path to the knockout stages.

The goalkeeping department includes Udoh, alongside Olawale Oremade of Oasis FC and Detan Ogundare from Kogi United. This trio offers a blend of agility, shot-stopping ability, and leadership, ensuring that Nigeria has a solid foundation at the back.

In defense, the squad combines domestic talent with international experience. Mike Zaruma of Plateau United, Ikouwem Utin of Enyimba, Solomon Ogberahwe of El-Kanemi Warriors, and Olasunkanmi Aliyu of Emmanuel Amuneke Academy make up the core of the backline. Notably, Igoh Ogbu, who plays for Rosenborg FC in Norway, brings European experience, while Valentine Ozornwafor of Enyimba adds versatility to the defensive setup. Together, this unit is expected to provide both stability and attacking support from the flanks.

The midfield includes a mix of creative and combative players capable of dictating the tempo of the game. Peter Eletu of Prince Kazeem Academy, Quadri Liameed of 36 Lions, Aniekeme Okon of Akwa United, Jamil Muhammad of Kano Pillars, and Afeez Aremu, who currently plies his trade at IK Start in Norway, form a well-rounded midfield core. This group offers Nigeria both defensive cover and offensive creativity, crucial in navigating the competitive tournament format.

Upfront, the team boasts a range of striking options. Adamu Alhassan (Kano Pillars), Yahaya Nazifi (Sonderjyske FC, Denmark), Ibrahim Aliyu (Oasis FC), Adeshina Gata (Wikki Tourists), Ibrahim Abubakar (Plateau United), Okoh Victor (Real Sapphire FC), and Maxwell Effiom (Enyimba) provide variety in attack, blending pace, physicality, and technical skill. Aigbogun will rely on this forward line to convert chances and maintain Nigeria’s reputation as one of Africa’s most prolific youth sides.

With a rich history in the competition, Nigeria enters the tournament with high expectations. The squad’s combination of domestic talent, international experience, and seasoned youth internationals reflects a strategic approach aimed at reclaiming the continental crown. As the tournament kicks off in Niger, all eyes will be on the Flying Eagles to see if they can continue their legacy and secure an eighth African U-20 title.