Maikaba targets U-20 AFCON ticket against Ivory Coast

Nigeria's head coach, Abdul Maikaba, remains confident his team will overcome their recent loss to Burkina Faso and secure a spot in the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. The Flying Eagles suffered a 2-0 defeat against Burkina Faso in their final group game, leaving them in second place and facing a tough semi-final against the hosts.

Maikaba's side had secured an early spot in the knockout stage after winning their first two matches against Ghana and Togo, but they needed at least a draw against Burkina Faso to top the group. The semi-final winners will qualify for the 2027 U-20 AFCON hosted in Ghana. Maikaba expressed his belief in his team's ability to bounce back from the setback and focus on the upcoming match.

Nigeria, a seven-time champion of the U-20 AFCON, and Maikaba, the newly appointed head coach, are determined to bring the title back to the country. The tournament will also act as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Azerbaijan.