Flying Eagles prepare for possible U-20 AFCON lifeline
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles are keeping hope alive of featuring at the 2026 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, with coach Abdul Maikaba already working on plans to strengthen the team should the country’s request for an additional slot be approved.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has formally approached the Confederation of African Football (CAF), seeking an extra qualification place for the WAFU B zone that would allow both finalists of the 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship, Nigeria and Burkina Faso, to compete at the continental tournament.
The NFF is relying on a precedent from the 2025 U-20 AFCON, when Tunisia was included after hosts Egypt qualified automatically, allowing the North African zone to have three representatives.
With Ghana set to host the 2026 edition, Nigeria hopes CAF will extend similar consideration to the WAFU B zone.
The request comes after a disappointing campaign for the Flying Eagles, who lost twice to Burkina Faso at the WAFU B tournament in Côte d’Ivoire, including a heavy 4-1 defeat in the final in Yamoussoukro.
Despite the setback, Maikaba believes another opportunity could give Nigeria the chance to correct its mistakes and put up a stronger showing on the continental stage.
The coach says he has already begun reviewing the squad, with particular attention to player selection and the areas that need improvement.
“I have been doing my homework; if it happens that we are given that slot, most especially in the selection of players,” Maikaba said.
“It will be different if we have another chance to play in the competition because I am doing a lot of homework to ensure we do not make those mistakes again.”
Maikaba spoke in Owerri after Bayelsa United, whom he also coaches, suffered a 3-0 defeat to Heartland FC in a pre-season friendly on Tuesday.
For the Flying Eagles, the NFF’s request could provide a route back into contention, but the final decision rests with CAF. Until then, Maikaba and his technical crew are preparing for the possibility of a second chance to compete for continental honours.
