Nigeria’s Flying Eagles face uncertainty after Ivory Coast abruptly pulled out as hosts of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations just 30 days before kickoff.
The Ivorian Football Federation announced the withdrawal on Tuesday, citing a government directive, leaving the Confederation of African Football scrambling to find a new venue.
Ivory Coast’s national team is now disqualified, and the country risks CAF sanctions, including exclusion from future tournaments.
Meanwhile, Nigeria, who were set to open their campaign against Egypt on April 30, must now wait for CAF’s decision on a new host.
Morocco is a potential replacement, given its existing infrastructure and recent history of stepping in to host African tournaments.
However, no official decision has been made, leaving the Flying Eagles to adjust their preparations amid the uncertainty.
With a top-four finish guaranteeing a U-20 World Cup spot, Nigeria remains focused on success, hoping CAF resolves the crisis swiftly to keep the tournament on schedule.
