The Flying Eagles of Nigeria are set to mark a major milestone today as they play their 100th match in the history of the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. The team will face Kenya in their final Group B match at the 24th edition of the tournament, currently taking place in Egypt. Despite Kenya already being eliminated, the encounter is crucial for Nigeria, who aim to secure a place in the knockout stage and potentially top the group.
Under coach Aliyu Zubairu, a draw would be sufficient to ensure progression, while a victory could see them finish first in the group—depending on the result of the Morocco versus Tunisia fixture.
With a prestigious legacy, Nigeria leads the tournament’s all-time records. Out of 99 matches played, the Flying Eagles have won 56—21 more than closest rivals Ghana. Nigeria also holds the record for the most goals scored at the competition with 156, far ahead of Ghana’s 91 and Cameroon’s 90.
Nigeria has also won the tournament seven times, collecting 187 points across 20 editions. Egypt and Ghana follow with four titles each and 121 and 120 points respectively.
Despite their unbeaten record so far in the group stage, Nigeria’s attack has underwhelmed. The team has only managed one goal in two games—a narrow 1-0 win over Tunisia followed by a goalless draw against Morocco. Their shot conversion rate is the lowest in the group at 6.25%, and they share the fewest shots on target (seven) with Tunisia.
Kenya, though eliminated, has shown greater efficiency in front of goal with 11 shots on target and a 14.29% conversion rate. Defensively, they have won the most tackles (34) but conceded six goals. Nigeria, however, has remained solid defensively, with two clean sheets and minimal threats to goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt.
Historically, Nigeria performs well in final group matches, going unbeaten in their last six. If they avoid defeat today, it will mark their eighth time advancing from the group stage unbeaten and only the second time they’ve kept consecutive clean sheets in opening group games.
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