Interview: ‘I seized my players’ phones to avoid distractions’ – Flying Eagles’ coach

Coach Zubair Aliyu shared his insights with Sports247 in Lomé, Togo, after the exhilarating final victory over Ghana.

The coach opens up about his experience leading the team, how he managed to secure regional success despite taking on the role at short notice, and his approach to guiding the team towards future competitions, including the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa. He also discusses balancing his dual roles as coach of both El-Kanemi Warriors and the Flying Eagles.

One-on-One Session

What does this victory mean to you?

Zubair: Thank you very much. It means a lot to me. When I was given the job, people congratulated me, but I told them they should rather sympathize with me, given the short preparation time we had for the competition, starting from scratch.

We only had one month to prepare, and I was initially concerned about that. But we took things step-by-step, and look at where we are today. I’m very happy and delighted.

After losing the first match to Burkina Faso, what did you tell the players to help them cope with the pressure and eventually win the championship?

Zubair: Our biggest setback was losing that first match. Right after the loss, I instructed our CSO to collect the players’ phones, so they wouldn’t be exposed to social media comments that could discourage them.

I then motivated them, sharing examples like Argentina’s journey in the last World Cup. They lost their first game against Saudi Arabia but went on to win the tournament. I told the players they could do the same, as I believed in their potential.

We didn’t have any international friendlies beforehand, so they lacked the experience of facing foreign teams. The game against Burkina Faso served as a wake-up call, and once they overcame that, we saw the results.

How did you select such a talented group of players in such a short time?

Zubair: My philosophy about young players hasn’t changed. Given the limited time, I selected players who could fit into that philosophy.

Some doubted the team, saying the players were too young for WAFU, but I knew exactly what I wanted from them. Despite their ages and smaller statures compared to other teams, they responded well in training, and I was confident they would excel.

Some deficiencies were noted in the team. Will you be inviting new players to strengthen the squad?

Zubair: No, the camp won’t be entirely open, as we have an existing structure. However, we will make additions and subtractions as needed. If a better player is available and meets eligibility requirements, we will bring them in. We want the best at every level.

What’s your goal for the U-20 AFCON in South Africa?

Zubair: Our primary target at the U-20 Nations Cup in South Africa is to secure a World Cup ticket by reaching the semi-finals. If we achieve that, we’ll then focus on the next steps.

What support do you need from the NFF for the U-20 AFCON preparations and friendlies?

Zubair: We want to start our preparations early, as we had limited time for the WAFU B Championship. Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso, for example, prepared for over six months, with tours in Europe. I’m appealing for early preparation and international friendlies to ensure we’re ready for the tournament in South Africa.

Are you able to manage your roles with both El-Kanemi Warriors and the Flying Eagles?

Zubair: I’m not distracted by my role with El-Kanemi Warriors. We have a solid structure and a capable assistant coach who manages the team in my absence. We’re currently on a nine-game unbeaten run this season.

Thank you for your time. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you, and we wish the team all the best in their upcoming competitions.

Zubair: Thank you. The pleasure is mine.

Credit: Sports247