Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu has heaped plaudits on his players following their hard-earned victory over Senegal.
The seven-time champions booked a spot in the last four at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations following a 3-1 penalty shootout win over the holders in the quarter-final at the Suez Canal Stadium, Ismailia on Monday.
Nigeria also earned a spot at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup following the win.
The game ended 0-0 after 120 minutes of energy-sapping football action.
Zubairu said his players displayed champions mentality in the game.
“We trained for this moment. Every possible scenario was prepared for — including penalties. The boys stuck to the plan and executed it when it mattered the most. That’s what champions do,”;; the gaffer said after the game.
Zubairu also commended the players for the focus and unity in his squad, adding that the journey is far from over.
“This is a big win for Nigeria, but we are not celebrating yet. We came here with a goal — to qualify for the World Cup and challenge for the title. One box is ticked, now we keep pushing,”;; he added.
