Seventeen-year-old striker Abdulmuiz Adeleke, who is set to join English Premier League giants Chelsea upon turning 18, has been named to spearhead the Nigeria U20 Flying Eagles’ attack for the upcoming WAFU B U20 Tournament.
Head coach Abdullahi Maikaba has placed his faith in the highly rated youngster as Nigeria prepares to defend its regional title in a competition that also serves as a qualifier for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations. Adeleke will lead an attacking unit selected after the technical crew assessed more than 100 players during the selection process, underlining the confidence placed in one of the country’s most exciting young prospects.
The teenager first announced himself on the international stage at the WAFU B U17 Tournament two years ago, where he delivered a series of outstanding performances. Adeleke scored twice in Nigeria’s 3-0 victory over Togo before adding another goal in the third-place playoff against Ghana, finishing the tournament with four goals. Although the Golden Eaglets narrowly missed qualification for the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, his displays established him as one of the brightest attacking talents in Nigerian football.
The 2026 WAFU B U20 Tournament will be held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from July 26 to August 9, with eight nations competing for regional glory and qualification to the U20 Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria will travel to Côte d’Ivoire on July 20 after finalising its squad, with the Flying Eagles aiming to secure a third consecutive WAFU B title following triumphs under former coaches Ladan Bosso and Aliyu Zubairu.
Adeleke’s inclusion has generated even greater excitement following confirmation that he will complete a move to Chelsea when he becomes eligible. The opportunity to lead Nigeria’s attack at such a prestigious youth tournament provides another important stage for the young striker to showcase his talent before beginning the next chapter of his career in England.
With expectations high and qualification for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations on the line, all eyes will be on Adeleke as he looks to inspire the Flying Eagles to another successful WAFU B campaign and further strengthen his growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s most promising young footballers.
