Former Flying Eagles captain, Daniel Bameyi, has declared his ambition to guide Nigeria’s U-20 national team to World Cup glory, expressing deep confidence in the team’s potential to conquer the world stage. The determined defender, who captained the side during the last U-20 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the World Cup in Argentina, said his dream remains to lift the prestigious trophy for Nigeria — a feat that has eluded the country despite its rich history in youth football.
Speaking in a recent interview, Bameyi revealed that representing Nigeria at the U-20 World Cup was one of the proudest moments of his career. He described the experience as both humbling and inspiring, noting that it strengthened his desire to bring the title home in the near future. “Playing against some of the best young talents in the world opened my eyes to how much more we can achieve as a team,” he said. “It’s my dream to see Nigeria win the U-20 World Cup, and I believe it’s possible with the right mindset and preparation.”
Bameyi acknowledged the efforts of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the coaching staff for their commitment to developing young players, adding that continued investment in youth football would be key to achieving success on the global stage. He emphasized that discipline, teamwork, and consistency remain the core values that can propel Nigeria to victory, urging his teammates and upcoming players to stay focused on excellence.
Reflecting on the team’s previous campaign, where the Flying Eagles put up spirited performances before bowing out in the knockout stages, Bameyi said the experience taught them valuable lessons. “We played with passion, but football always comes with challenges,” he noted. “The important thing is to learn from those moments and come back stronger. We now understand what it takes to compete at that level.”
The talented defender, who currently plays club football in the Nigerian league, also hinted at his desire to secure a move abroad to gain more exposure and experience. According to him, competing in more advanced leagues would not only improve his personal game but also enhance his leadership qualities ahead of future international duties. He credited his family and coaches for their support, describing them as the backbone of his football journey.
Bameyi’s confidence has rekindled optimism among fans who believe Nigeria’s next generation of footballers can restore the country’s dominance at youth level. With five U-17 World Cup titles already in Nigeria’s cabinet, supporters are hopeful that Bameyi’s dream could soon become reality at the U-20 level. The young star remains undeterred, insisting that with hard work and unity, “nothing is impossible for the Flying Eagles.”
