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| Kelechi Iheanacho, Chigozi Obasi, Raymond Japhet and Abdullahi Alfa of Nigeria celebrate their victory after the FIFA World Cup UAE 2013 Final between Nigeria and Mexica at Mohamed Bin Zayed Stadium on November 8, 2013 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo FIFA/FIFA) |
The Golden Eaglets’ Head Coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, on Tuesday warned his players to be wary of Mali at the ongoing U-17 West African Football Union (WAFU) tournament in Togo.
A statement by the team’s Media Officer, Morakinyo Abodunrin, said the coach cautioned his players against being complacent during their second match against Mali.
Amuneke said the Golden Eaglets would need at least a draw to finish atop Group B ahead of the semi-finals of the tournament.
Only Nigeria and Mali are left in Group B following the withdrawal of Niger Republic from the tournament.
Both teams would meet on Wednesday for the second time in the tournament at the Stade Municipal in Lome.
Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets had beaten Mali 2-0 in their first meeting on Monday.
“The game on Monday gave us a better idea of the Malians and I must confess that they are a very good side.
“We had thought that the Malians were going to parade big players like they did when we played against them during the qualifiers for the 2013 African Under-17 Championship in Morocco.
“I am impressed with the young boys they brought. I believe the game on Wednesday will be a totally different one, because the Malians will want to avenge their defeat.
“But, we just have to consolidate on our position because this competition has given the players the opportunity to know what is demanded at this level.
“And by God’s grace, they (the players) will be at their best against Mali on Wednesday,’’ Amuneke was quoted as saying. (NAN)
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