Egypt U-20 head coach, Osama Nabih, has praised his players despite their narrow 2-1 defeat to Nigeria in a friendly match on Tuesday. The match, which served as the final preparation for both teams ahead of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), was a highly competitive affair. Despite the loss, Nabih expressed pride in his team’s performance and highlighted their resilience throughout the match.

The friendly match, which took place just days before the start of the U-20 AFCON, was a crucial test for both teams as they fine-tuned their tactics and lineups for the upcoming tournament. Egypt, as the host nation, is expected to be a strong contender in the competition, and Nabih’s men showcased their capabilities even though they were ultimately defeated by Nigeria. Nabih’s focus remained on the positive aspects of his team’s display, despite the result.

The game got off to a fast start, with Nigeria taking the lead in the 10th minute through Norway-based striker Kparobo Arierhi. Arierhi has been in exceptional form since helping the Flying Eagles secure victory in the WAFU B U-20 Championship last October, and he continued his impressive run by finding the back of the net early on. The goal put Egypt on the back foot, but Nabih’s side responded with determination, pushing to get back into the game.

Egypt’s efforts were rewarded in the 68th minute when Ahmed Kaabaka scored a brilliant equalizer following a well-executed team move. The goal was a result of Egypt’s increased intensity and their ability to keep pressing Nigeria despite the early setback. Kaabaka’s strike demonstrated the skill and composure of the Young Pharaohs, and it gave them a well-deserved equalizer as they looked to take control of the match.

However, Nigeria regained the lead late in the game when they were awarded a penalty in the 84th minute. The penalty came after Divine Oliseh was fouled in the box, and Precious Benjamin made no mistake, converting the spot-kick to put Nigeria ahead once again. Despite Egypt’s efforts to press forward in the final moments, the Flying Eagles held onto their advantage, securing a 2-1 victory.

Following the match, coach Nabih was quick to praise his team’s overall performance. "We faced a strong and well-organized team," he said, acknowledging the quality of Nigeria's side. "Our players delivered one of the most valuable and intense experiences from all technical, tactical, and physical aspects." Nabih recognized that his team controlled large periods of the game and had created several opportunities but was ultimately undone by missed chances and the late penalty decision.

"Our players controlled the game and posed a real threat despite conceding early. They managed to respond well, and Kaabaka scored the equalizer in the 68th minute with a brilliant strike following a lovely team move," Nabih continued. "We could have won, but we missed several scoring chances before Nigeria scored their second from the penalty spot six minutes from time." Nabih’s comments reflected his belief that Egypt’s performance was encouraging, despite the defeat, and he emphasized that the team had learned valuable lessons from the match ahead of their AFCON campaign.

Looking ahead to the 2025 U-20 AFCON, Egypt will compete in Group A alongside Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania. Nabih and his team will be hoping to build on their positive performance in the friendly and improve upon their tactical approach in the tournament. Egypt’s strong showing against Nigeria, despite the loss, will give them confidence as they prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in the competition.

On the other hand, Nigeria, coached by Aliyu Zubairu, has also shown strong preparations ahead of the U-20 AFCON. The Flying Eagles, drawn in Group B, will begin their campaign next Thursday against Tunisia. Nigeria's focus will now shift to their opening match, where they will look to continue their momentum from the friendly victory over Egypt. The clash with Tunisia is expected to be a tough encounter, and Nigeria will need to remain sharp if they are to compete for the continental title.