Sports Minister Congratulates Flying Eagles For Sealing U20 AFCON Spot
By Lekan Sowande, Abuja.
Nigeria’s Sports Minister Sunday Dare has commended the country’s Under-20 football team, the Flying Eagles, for qualifying for the final of the WAFU B Under-20 Championship in Niamey, Niger Republic.
The Flying Eagles beat the Young Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire 2-1 after extra time on Tuesday in a pulsating semi final encounter, booking a place in Saturday’s final as well as qualify for the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt in 2023.
“Your hard earned victory over Côte d’Ivoire in the semi final and your performances in the games against Ghana and Burkina Faso have shown what is possible when a team plays with focus, determination and discipline,” Dare said.
“We are so proud of you all, both players, coaches and also happy with the results so far. We are solidly behind you. However, this is not the time to rest on your oars. The journey ahead of you is a long one.”
“Go all out on Saturday, win the WAFU U20 trophy and then we will begin to prepare very adequately for the U20 AFCON next year and be among the four African representatives,” Dare concluded.
The Flying Eagles had earlier beaten the defending champions Ghana 2-0 and drawn 2-2 with Burkina Faso.
Nigeria will now face Benin Republic in Saturday’s final in Niamey.
