Egypt U-20 head coach, Osama Nabih, has expressed pride in his team’s performance despite their 2-1 defeat to Nigeria’s Flying Eagles in a pre-Africa U-20 Cup of Nations friendly on Tuesday night at the Cairo International Stadium.
Norway-based striker Kparobo Arierhi gave Nigeria an early lead in the 10th minute, while Ahmed Kaabaka equalized for the Young Pharaohs in the 68th minute.
However, the Flying Eagles secured victory with a decisive penalty converted by Precious Benjamin in the 84th minute.
“We faced a strong and well-organised team,” Nabih was quoted by Egypt Football Association official website.
“Our players delivered one of the most valuable and intense experiences from all technical, tactical, and physical aspects.
“They controlled the game and posed a real threat despite going behind early. They managed to respond well, and Kabaka scored the equaliser in the 68th minute with a brilliant strike following a lovely team move.
“We could have won, but missed several scoring chances before Nigeria scored their second from the penalty spot six minutes from time.”
Egypt will battle Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania in Group A of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
As tournament hosts, the Young Pharaohs will kick off their campaign against Zambia’s Young Chipolopolo in Cairo on Sunday, April 27.