BY BEN OGBEMUDIA 

Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Sports, Honourable Kabiru Amadu, has urged Nigeria’s U-20 national team, the Flying Eagles, to give their all in Monday’s crucial quarter-final clash against Senegal at the 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.

Hon. Amadu, in a statement released on Sunday, described the fixture as a “golden opportunity” for the team to qualify for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, with all four semi-finalists at the ongoing tournament earning automatic tickets to represent Africa on the global stage.

“The match against Senegal is more than a quarter-final; it is a chance to fly the Nigerian flag on the world stage once again. I urge the players to rise to the occasion and make the nation proud,” Amadu stated.

The Flying Eagles reached the knockout round after finishing unbeaten in Group B, recording a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Tunisia and holding Morocco goalless and Kenya to a 2-2 draw. The team now faces a Senegalese side known for its physicality and discipline, setting the stage for a high-stakes West African showdown.

Hon. Amadu, who has been a vocal supporter of youth sports development, commended the players and coaching crew for their efforts so far and reaffirmed the National Assembly’s support for the team.

“Nigerians are fully behind you. We believe in your talent, resilience, and determination. Qualifying for the World Cup will not only be a reward for your hard work but a unifying moment for the country,” he added.

The Flying Eagles will take on Senegal on Monday with kickoff slated for 5 p.m. local time. Victory would see Nigeria book a place in the semi-finals of the continental tournament and confirm their ticket to Chile 2025.

The Flying Eagles are the most successful team at the competition with seven titles.