Five-time world champions, Golden Eaglets of Nigeria began their campaign at the UEFA/CAF U17 Tournament by condemning Turkey, host nation to two unreplied goals scored by Olakunle Olusegun and Divine Nwachukwu in each half of the game.
It was an explosive encounter from the blast of the whistle as Turkey tried to unsettle their Nigerian counterparts at the early stage of the game, but the Eaglets stood firm and thereafter asserted their presence by their smooth brand of football which yielded fruit when Olakunle Olusegun found the back of the net in the 10th minute.
The goal gave the Eaglets confidence as they dominated possession with scintillating passes and continuous bombardment of their opponents’ vital area for more goals, but the scoreline remained 1-0 at the break.
Turkey tried to fight back on the resumption but met strong resistance in the defence of the Eaglets and just as it happened in the first half, the Nigerian teenagers enforced their superior quality as they controlled the game, creating more goal-scoring opportunities, but failed to increase the tally. However, the pressure told on the defence of Turkey as it caved in to concede an infringement in the box. The resultant penalty was converted by Divine Nwachukwu.
Manu Garba, Head Coach of the Eaglets said after the game that it was a very difficult encounter despite the victory of his team, adding that the team will continue to improve in its next game.
“It was not an easy game. We played against a very good side and it is a relief that we won. I’m certain that the team will continue to improve in the tournament.” he told thenff.com.
Nigeria will play her next game against Guatemala on Tuesday.
