Top Flying Eagles Of Nigeria Stars To Watch Out For In 2025 U-20 World Cup

As Nigeria’s Flying Eagles prepare for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, a fresh crop of talented youngsters are set to carry the nation’s hopes on the global stage.

From Europe-based prodigies to homegrown gems, the current Flying Eagles squad is buzzing with potential which will be unleashed in Chile at 9 p.m. (WAT) tonight, September 29, when they take on Norway in their World Cup opener.

Below are the top Flying Eagles players to keep an eye on:

1. Daniel Daga (Molde, Norway)

Daga has been a household name since his fearless midfield displays at Argentina 2023, where he broke into the spotlight at just 16. Now 18, the Molde midfielder brings a wealth of experience, having featured regularly for Enyimba before making the move to Norway.

With 12 league games and two goals under his belt this season, Daga is expected to provide leadership, composure, and the tactical intelligence Nigeria needs to thrive in Chile.

2. Kparobo Arierhi (Lillestrom SK, Norway)

Few Nigerian strikers have risen as quickly as Arierhi. Discovered at Victor Ikpeba’s five-a-side tournament in Warri, he made his name at Beyond Limits Football Academy, where he bagged 22 goals in 15 games to win the TCC title.

He was Nigeria’s top scorer at the WAFU B tournament, scoring twice in the final against Ghana. With a loan spell at Mjondalen IF sharpening his skills, Arierhi’s eye for goal could prove decisive at the World Cup.

3. Sani Suleman (AS Trencin, Slovakia)

Suleman is a classic case of meteoric rise. Just over a year ago, he kept Akwa United afloat with 11 goals in 19 NPFL matches, earning the Rookie of the Season award.

Now at AS Trencin, he has already contributed two goals and an assist in five outings this campaign. Known for his versatility, the 18-year-old can switch seamlessly between midfield and attack, making him one of Nigeria’s most dynamic threats.

4. Akinyele (Remo Stars, Nigeria)

After much clamour from fans and pundits, Akinyele has finally been handed his chance on the big stage. Widely regarded as one of the finest defenders of his generation in the NPFL, the Remo Stars centre-back boasts a league title and CAF Champions League experience.

His tactical awareness and ability to build play from the back will give the Flying Eagles both defensive stability and flexibility in formation.

5. Daniel Bameyi (Bayelsa United, Nigeria)

The captain returns for his second U-20 World Cup, this time without the cloud of doubt that surrounded his Argentina 2023 call-up.

Now firmly established at Bayelsa United, Bameyi has silenced his critics with strong, consistent performances. Named in the Best XI at the U-20 AFCON, his leadership and calm presence at the back make him a vital figure for Nigeria’s campaign.

6. Ebenezer Harcourt (Sporting Lagos, Nigeria)

Harcourt has already cemented his reputation as a big-game goalkeeper. His two penalty saves against Senegal at the U-20 AFCON quarterfinal were the stuff of legend, and his earlier stop in the 53rd minute showed his reflexes under pressure.

Having also featured for the CHAN Eagles, the Sporting Lagos shot-stopper blends youth with maturity. In a high-stakes tournament like the World Cup, his composure between the sticks could be the difference-maker.

Source: Naijanews