Kparobo Arierhi has been named by CAF among five rising stars to watch at the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, highlighting the growing buzz around the Flying Eagles striker.
The 18-year-old forward is expected to play a central role in Nigeria’s bid to return to the summit of youth football on the continent, and ultimately, book a ticket to the FIFA U20 World Cup.
With his aggression, movement, and relentless goal-scoring form, comparisons with Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen are not far-fetched.
CAF’s recognition comes on the back of Arierhi’s exploits in the 2024 WAFU B U20 Championship, where he scored twice in the final against Ghana to seal a 2-1 win for Nigeria and earn Man of the Match.
Kparobo Arierhi: From academy prodigy to continental spotlight with Flying Eagles
Before his breakthrough on the international stage, Arierhi tore through defences in The Creative Championship League, finishing last season with a staggering 22 goals in just 15 games.
He also was the star of Nigeria’s Beyond Limits Academy at the 2024 Viareggio Cup in Italy, scoring five goals in six games to guide the side to a historic triumph the first by an African team in the competition.
Ariehri followed that with eight goals at the Gothia Cup in Sweden, again dragging his side into the semi-finals. His goal-laden youth résumé caught the eye of Lillestrøm, who swiftly secured his signature. He formally joined the Norwegian outfit in January 2025.
Now under brighter lights in Egypt, Arierhi carries the weight of expectation on young shoulders. But from all indications, he’s not just built for the moment, he’s built for the future.
