Golden Eaglets And The Mexican Challenge

Nigeria’s U-17 male football team, the Golden Eaglets will, on Saturday, kick off their campaign at the ongoing FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, UAE, against reigning world and CONCACAF champions, Mexico.

A total of 24 teams would fight to determine which country is crowned eventual champions on 8 November when the curtain falls on the tournament.

There is no doubt that the Eaglets could be crowned as eventual champions but there is need for them to take the first decisive step by beating the Mexicans considered as a football powerhouse. Sweden and Iraq are the other countries that make up Group F.

Only three-time champions Brazil and Nigeria have lifted the FIFA U-17 World Cup trophy on more occasions than Mexico and it is pertinent to note that there is need for the Eaglets to begin their campaign on a winning note.

Defeating the Mexicans conveniently would send warning signals to other countries in the group and their potential knockout stage opponents.

Having stayed together for a considerable period of time, it is expected that the Nigerian lads should have an easy match against Mexico. But the West Africans must also be wary of the antics of their opponents.

The wealth of experience and exposure of Chelsea FC of England player, Habib Makanjuola, will come in handy in this crucial game against Mexico. Makanjuola is already brimming with confidence ahead of the group opener, saying  the tournament is good for  the Eaglets’ progress since it offers the players the chance to show what they can do.

Coach Manu Garba along with his assistants, Nduka Ugbade and Emmanuel Amunike, all products of the cadet championship, have what it takes to surmount a tough side like Mexico. The Eaglets could be four times lucky if they start Saturday’s match on a winning note, defeat all other opponents and win the final on 8 November. We believe this can be done if the players and the technical crew get their acts right.