Highly rated Flying Eagles left-winger Success Makanjuola is thrilled to have made his debut for the team at the ongoing 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup against Qatar reports Completesports.com.
The Water FC teenage sensation, Makanjuola was handed a cameo appearance by coach Paul Aigbogun on Friday when he came on for Maxwell Effiom in the 81st minute of the Flying Eagles 4-0 thumping of Qatar at the Tychy stadium.
Goals from Maxwell Effiom, Okechukwu Offia, Tom Dele-Bashiru, and Aliu Salawudeen secured an emphatic win for the two-time runners up, Flying Eagles who were making a return back to the tournament after missing the 2017 edition.
The 18-year-old, Makanjuola showed flashes of brilliance making two successful dribbles as Aigbogun’s tried to extend their lead.
“I am really excited for making my debut today,” Makanjuola told the media after the game.
“It’s a moment I have been waiting for and I am happy it finally came on my birthday and we claimed a big win.”
“My focus now is on our next game against USA on Monday and I believe we will make it to the next round.”
With the 4-0 trashing of Qatar, the Nigerian team now lead group D on superior goal difference of after Ukraine also edged USA 2-1 in the other group fixture.
By Johnny Edward
4 Comments
Great Lad. He is like covering up for Samuel Chukwueze cuz he’s also a left footed winger and he’s living up to the “Messi” tag given to him. He dribbles very well and a big headache for the opponents defense. I’ll love to see him replace the ineffective Tijani against USA and Effiom plays 9 while he plays 11
…That was one of the reasons I was against Sam’s participation at this tournament. Sam we know….the rest we do not, why not let another talent/set of talents emerge from this competition, so we can have a wider pool of talents. Makanjuola didnt get much playing time, but what really caught my attention about him was his swift left foot and quick movements. I’ld really love to see him get more gametime in subsequent games before shouting hallelujah.
@Dr Drey-You are just spot on.Thank God the coaches resolved to have Chukwueze in the Senior team.
I was particularly impressed with Makanjuola although the time he was on pitch is not just enough to say we have messi-like talent.
I believe Tijiani will still perform credibly well, maybe the Ramadan fast lowered his performance levels.
Ikouwem is a class ahead of his team mates, worthy captain.
Overall, an okay performance, USA will give a sterner test but, we wish the team all the best.
I have this feeling an African country will win this competition.
All things been equal, its a good start to the tournament….im giving the team a Hi- 5 !!!