Nigeria’s Golden Eagles are quick to dismiss the “favorites” label as they get ready for their opening encounter at the TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Algeria 2023, despite having qualified for the World Cup a whopping 12 times and winning it in five of those appearances.
Nigeria, two-time U17 African champions, will begin their campaign on Sunday at the Mohamed Hamloui Stadium in Constantine with a difficult match against Zambia.
Precious Williams, the captain, has made it clear that none of the players should be viewed as favorites because they are all new to the Continental experience.
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“No, we are not favorites. Every team that has come here deserves to be here and our group is equally strong.
“Every team in there is a tough one. We are here to expose our talents and show what we can do as a team and also achieve the targets that we have set, which includes qualifying for the World Cup,” the striker stated.
In order to accomplish their predetermined goals, they are simply focused on giving it their all and accepting each game as it comes, according to head coach Nduka Ugbade.
“This is a very difficult group and everyone can win it.
“For us, we have prepared well and ready for our first match. We don’t fear anyone but we respect all the teams,” he noted.
Ugbade said they anticipate a difficult encounter against the Southern Africans in their opening match against Zambia, however he concedes they do not have much knowledge of their style of play.
“I played against Zambia at the 1994 Cup of Nations and we won 2-1 and I know that Zambia is a great football nation.
“We know they will be good and they will come out strongly. We have to be prepared for them,” the coach stated.
In the only encounter between Zambia and Nigeria during this competition, the Golden Eaglets triumphed 3-1.
Victor Osimhen scored twice, Kelechi Nwakali added a third goal, and Zambia’s consolation goal was scored by Patson Daka, another current senior team hero.
Nigeria is not depending on past success to sail over the Young Chipolopolo on Sunday because they are aware that history might not repeat itself.