The Nigerian U17 squad, famously known as the Golden Eaglets, has finalized its roster ahead of their departure on Wednesday for the WAFU-B U17 Championship in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, according to Soccernet.ng.
Coach Manu Garba has carefully selected a 20-man team comprising three goalkeepers, six defenders, five midfielders, and six forwards, all set to represent Nigeria as they aim to claim regional supremacy.
In preparation for the tournament, the Golden Eaglets concluded their training phase with a goalless draw against Mop Stars FC. However, their overall form remains impressive, boasting 10 victories, two draws, and a single defeat from 13 friendly matches, scoring 25 goals while conceding only five.
Nigeria will kick off their campaign in Group B against the Baby Cheetahs of Benin Republic on September 24, followed by a match against Burkina Faso. Group B consists of only three teams.
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Meanwhile, Group A features hosts Côte d’Ivoire, Niger Republic, Ghana, and Togo. All fixtures will take place at the Stade du Lycée Scientifique, a modern venue constructed for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Originally, Nigeria was set to host the tournament with Abeokuta’s MKO Abiola Stadium and the Remo Stars’ ground in Ikenne designated as venues. However, due to renovation delays at the Ikenne stadium, the WAFU-B council reassigned hosting duties to Côte d’Ivoire.
The Golden Eaglets, who have clinched the FIFA U17 World Cup title five times, are determined to reclaim their status as a powerhouse in youth football.
Having missed the last two U17 World Cups and failing to qualify for the 2025 U17 AFCON, the team carries a strong desire for redemption as they compete in Côte d’Ivoire under Garba’s leadership.
FINAL ROSTER OF NIGERIA’S GOLDEN EAGLETS FOR WAFU-B U17 TOURNAMENT
Goalkeepers: Aquila Ahur (Mailantarki FC), Great Edafe (Beyond Limits), Paul Awelewa (Morak FC)
Defenders: Abdullateef Lasisi (La Planet), Mubarak Rasheed (RFO FC), Sadiq Salihu (Niger Tornadoes), Godwin Menyaga (Adoration FC), Abdulsamad Salisu (Central FC), Emmanuel Asika (Mailantarki FC)
Midfielders: Paul Ugwu (RBM FC), Famous Umole (Derby FC), David Edeh (Adoration FC), Umar Yahaya (Footwork FC), Ahmed Yusuf (One-Touch FC)
Forwards: Wisdom Innocent (Wonderland FC), George Agha (Unique & Fine FC), Boluwatife Thompson (Breeders FC), Emeka Nnalue (Collins FC), Salim Umar (Dante FC), Auwal Muhammad (36 Lions)
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