Flying Eagles Drawn in CAF U20 AFCON ‘Group of Death’ with Egypt, South Africa, Morocco

Seven-time champions Nigeria’s Flying Eagles face a tough challenge at the 2024 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after being drawn into a highly competitive Group B alongside Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco. The tournament, set to take place in Cote d’Ivoire from April 26 to May 11, promises intense battles as three former champions clash in what many have dubbed the ‘Group of Death.’ The draw, conducted on Thursday at the CAF headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, saw Nigeria placed in the same group as Egypt, whom they edged 1-0 in the last edition’s group stage. Having finished third in the 2022 tournament in Egypt, the Flying Eagles will be aiming for a strong start to boost their confidence in a fiercely contested campaign. Former Malian international Adama Coulibaly, who assisted with the draw, acknowledged the tough nature of Nigeria’s group. “There is no doubt that Group B, with Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco, is the toughest in the tournament,” he said. Meanwhile, hosts Cote d’Ivoire find themselves in Group A alongside DR Congo, Ghana, Tanzania, and a yet-to-be-confirmed team from the Central Africa zone. Defending champions Senegal lead Group C, where they will face Zambia and debutants Kenya and Sierra Leone. With a place in the FIFA U20 World Cup also at stake, the Flying Eagles will need to navigate a challenging path to reclaim continental glory.