Nigeria U-20 head coach Abdul Maikaba has reiterated his side’s unwavering determination ahead of the tournament final, insisting the Flying Eagles have remained grounded and focused despite standing just one step away from continental glory.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, the experienced tactician reflected on Nigeria’s impressive journey to the final, highlighting the discipline, patience, and consistency that have defined the team’s campaign from the opening group-stage fixture to the knockout rounds.

According to Maikaba, the Flying Eagles have deliberately adopted a match-by-match approach throughout the competition, refusing to look too far ahead despite growing expectations surrounding the team.

“We’ve approached every game one at a time. We started in the group stage, progressed through the knockout rounds, and now we’ve earned our place in the final,” Maikaba said.

“We are just one victory away from qualifying for the U-20 AFCON and lifting the trophy.”

While reaching the final represents a significant milestone, Maikaba stressed that the job is far from complete.

The coach maintained that his players remain fully committed to delivering one final performance that could secure both the tournament title and qualification for the next U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Flying Eagles have impressed throughout the competition with disciplined displays, resilience under pressure, and a collective team spirit that has carried them through difficult encounters.

Those qualities, Maikaba believes, will once again be crucial as they prepare for their biggest test of the tournament.

Rather than allowing the occasion to distract his squad, the former Kano Pillars coach has urged his players to remain composed, trust the process that has brought them this far, and approach the final with the same focus that has characterized every previous match.

With national pride, continental qualification, and silverware all on the line, the Flying Eagles know the stakes could hardly be higher.

Yet confidence continues to grow within the Nigerian camp, fueled by a campaign built on hard work, tactical discipline, and an unwavering belief in their ability.

For Maikaba and his young squad, the objective is now crystal clear, produce one last commanding performance, seize the moment, and bring another major youth football title back to Nigeria.