FIFA U-15 World Cup: Future Eagles face Cyprus, Pakistan in Monday double-header
Nigeria’s Future Eagles will seek their first victory at the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival when they face Cyprus and Pakistan in a demanding double-header in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Monday, October 26.
Head coach Patrick Bassey’s side will meet Cyprus at 8:30 a.m. Nigerian time before returning to action against Pakistan at 3:15 p.m., with both matches scheduled to be streamed live on FIFA+ on DAZN.
The Nigerian youngsters have recorded three consecutive draws in their opening fixtures, leaving them with three points ahead of their final two group-stage encounters.
The Future Eagles began their campaign with an entertaining 3-3 draw against South Sudan before sharing a 2-2 result with Jordan. They subsequently played out another 3-3 draw against The Gambia.
Despite scoring eight goals across their first three matches, Nigeria have also conceded eight times, highlighting the need for greater defensive organisation as they approach Monday’s fixtures.
Cyprus Test Comes First
Nigeria’s first assignment will be against a Cyprus side that has collected seven points from its opening three matches.
The Cypriots have enjoyed a stronger start to the competition and will present a significant challenge for Bassey’s young squad, who must balance their attacking ambition with improved defensive discipline.
A victory would give Nigeria an important boost after three matches without a win and strengthen their position as the group-stage standings determine placement in the tournament’s next phase.
Pakistan Await in Afternoon Fixture
The Future Eagles will face Pakistan at 3:15 p.m. Nigerian time in their second match of the day.
Pakistan have lost their opening three fixtures and will be looking to finish the group stage on a positive note. However, Nigeria cannot afford to underestimate their opponents as they seek to convert their attacking promise into a first victory.
The short recovery period between the two matches could also test Nigeria’s squad depth and the coaching crew’s management of players’ workload.
With two games scheduled on the same day, Bassey and his assistants will need to make effective tactical and personnel decisions to maintain the team’s energy and performance levels.
Group AD Standings
Before Monday’s fixtures, South Sudan and Cyprus lead Group AD with seven points each, followed by The Gambia on five points.
Nigeria occupy fourth position with three points, while Jordan have one point and Pakistan are yet to register a point.
The Future Eagles will therefore be aiming to improve their standing and finish the opening phase with greater momentum.
Tournament Format and Live Coverage
The inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival is taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from October 24 to 30, 2026.
The competition features an eight-a-side format, with matches played over two 20-minute halves. Teams’ group-stage performances determine their placement in different competitive tiers for the next phase, ensuring that every participating nation continues to compete throughout the event.
Both Nigeria matches on Monday will be available live and free on FIFA+ on DAZN, subject to regional platform availability.
Future Eagles’ Monday Fixtures
• Cyprus vs Nigeria: 8:30 a.m. Nigerian time.
• Pakistan vs Nigeria: 3:15 p.m. Nigerian time.
• Live streaming: FIFA+ on DAZN.
After three consecutive draws, Nigeria will be hoping that Monday’s double-header finally delivers their first win of the tournament.
