NFF not happy with Flying Eagles’ lackluster African Games performance
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the performance of the U20 Boys, Flying Eagles, at the 2023 All African Games.
Ahead of their crucial match against Senegal’s Young Lions of Teranga on Friday, Gusau urged the players to exceed expectations and deliver a strong performance.
Gusau did not mince words in his assessment, stating that he has not been impressed with the Flying Eagles’ showing at the continental meet thus far. The team suffered a 1-2 defeat to Uganda and narrowly defeated South Sudan with a late penalty converted by Isiyaka Muhammad Sadiq.
“Nigeria has a strong reputation in youth football worldwide, and every player representing the country should be aware of that,” Gusau emphasized. “Our performance against Uganda was subpar, and I made my disappointment clear to the boys. Against South Sudan, we should have performed better. The players have the potential to do more, and they must demonstrate that against Senegal on Friday. It’s a must-win match for us to reach the semi-finals.”
Originally, Group B, which included Nigeria, had five teams, meaning each team would play four matches. However, Tunisia withdrew from the competition, leaving Uganda as the first team to secure a spot in the semi-finals. Nigeria and Senegal are now vying for the second semi-final ticket, while South Sudan has been eliminated after losing both games.
Meanwhile, in the women’s event, defending champions Falconets have secured their spot in the semi-finals. With six points from their first two matches, the Falconets are in a strong position heading into their final group match.
Chioma Olise and Yina Adoo were among the scorers as they defeated Morocco on Matchday 1, followed by an impressive victory over Senegal, with goals from Loveth Edeh, Motunrayo Ezekiel, an own goal by Aisha Kales, and another from Chioma Olise.
Cameroon, who have faced defeats against Nigeria in recent sporting events, will face a tough challenge against the formidable Falconets at the Cape Coast Stadium on Friday evening.
