Nigeria may not have ended the 2025 WAFU B U20 tournament the way they hoped, falling 1-0 to Ivory Coast in a tense final, but the Flying Eagles still had some standout performers who left a strong impression.
Despite coming into the tournament with high expectations under coach Aliyu Zubairu, the team couldn’t quite deliver the trophy. However, several players used the platform to showcase their talent, resilience, and potential on the West African stage.
Among those closely monitoring the tournament was former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi, who was impressed by the effort of the young stars. He singled out exclusively for Footy-Africa three standout players who caught his eye with their performances, composure and consistency throughout the competition.
These young talents gave fans hope for the future of Nigerian football even if the ultimate prize slipped through their fingers.
Ifeanyi Harcourt – Goalkeeper/Sporting Lagos
The young shot-stopper had an impressive outing, keeping one clean sheet in four games and making several crucial saves throughout the tournament. Aside from a costly late error in the final, Harcourt’s performances were near-flawless. His towering presence in goal proved intimidating for opponents, and his reflexes and command of the box mark him out as a top goalkeeping prospect. A name to remember for the future of African football.
Onazi’s thoughts
“I have followed this brilliant goalkeeper since his herois in the last AFCON U20 tournament in Egypt. He has a some good reflexes and helped the team a lot especially in the first game against Ghana. I think he is a future Super Eagles goalkeeper the way he is going.”
Ahmed Akinyele – Defender/Remo Stars
Composed and reliable, Akinyele formed a solid central defensive partnership with team captain Daniel Bameyi. While Bameyi marshalled the backline, Akinyele played the role of the enforcer, consistently winning duels and reading the game well. Comfortable on the ball and aggressive when needed, his maturity beyond his years was evident throughout the tournament.
Onazi’s perspective
“Ahmed (Akinyele) is in my opinion one of the best young defenders in Nigeria and he was a strong part of Remo Stars winning the Nigerian league title. The boy is very strong, heads the ball well and is a leader in the making. He was solid throughout the tournament in Ghana. I hope we see him in the Super Eagles soon.”
Abdullahi Mohammed – Midfielder/Forward/Kwara United
Versatile and dynamic, Abiodun began the tournament in an attacking midfield role but transitioned seamlessly into a support striker when required. His goals in the group stage were pivotal including the key equalisers against Ghana and Benin.
With a keen eye for goal and excellent movement, he was one of Nigeria’s most dangerous players in the final third.
Onazi’s angle
“To be frank, I did not know him prior to the tournament but after what he has done, I think he will make my top three. He will probably be my revelation of the tournament scoring some good goals in the early rounds of the tournament. If Abdullahi continues in the way he played in Ghana, he will be a household name in Nigeria and beyond.”
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