Egypt U-20 national team head coach, Osama Nabih has praised his players despite their defeat by the Flying Eagles of Nigeria.
The Young Pharaohs lost 2-1 to Nigeria in a pre-Africa U-20 Cup of Nations friendly at the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday night.
Norway-based striker Kparobo Arierhi opened scoring for Nigeria after 10 minutes.
Ahmed Kaabaka levelled for the hosts in the 68th minute.
The Flying Eagles however won the contest courtesy of Precious Benjamin’s 84th minute penalty.
“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 face Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania in Group A at the 2025 U-20 AFCON.
The hosts will take on Young Chipoloplo of Zambia in their opening fixture in Cairo on Sunday, 27 April.
