Ike Shorunmu has told Completesports.com that he has strong conviction Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets have the potential to ride on the back of Netherlands to the quarter finals of the ongoing FIFA U-17 World Cup, Brazil 2019, but says victory in tomorrow’s clash at Estadio Olimpico in Goiania won’t be fetched on a plater.
The Eaglets finished top of Group B standings, with six points and plus one goal while Netherlands finished third in Group D behind Japan and Senegal, and were rewarded with a Round of 16 berth as one of the best third-placed teams.
And as Tuesday’s clash beckons, Shorunmu says Eaglets have what it takes overpower their European foes but warns that the Dutch side won’t go down without a fight.
“I’ve strong confidence in this (Golden Eaglets) team. They have potent strike force. Though they have been conceding goals, don’t forget that the best form of defence is attack.
“But that’s not saying there is no need to tighten up the defence.
“This is the crucial stage of the competition. This is that stage where the best of any team comes out and I’m sure the Eaglets will win because the team is good”.
The former Super Eagles goalie and goalkeeper trainer pays tribute to the Europeans, urging the Eaglets to expect a tough game.
The Netherlands players celebrate a goal
“Any team that reaches the knockout stage of any competition must be good to have reached that stage.
“Of course, the Eaglets should not expect an easy game. Holland are not in Brazil for sightseeing.
“Don’t forget, they are European team who have a peculiar way of playing.
“We (Eaglets) should remain focused, avoid complacency and never to say, after all, Netherlands finished third in their group.
“It’s a game of equal numbers and on the balance quality and of course patriotism, Eaglets will win but it is going to be a tough match.”
By Sab Osuji
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COMMENTS
Their last match against Australia was nothing to write home about many Nigerians have given up with Manu Garba he promised fixing that defence mistakes still they still committed more errors at the back ,non of them seems to care to cover up if the opponents are with the ball,Holland will use that wing against the golden Eaglets to defeat them Hungary, Ecuador they all know the eaglets weak point , what are the coaches doing , that position is leanking do something , this is the last time Manu Garba will coach under17 and 20 his not good, bring back Amunike.
Yea quite agree. Just hope they would have sorted it out. Whish them success
Wish them successful outing. More over let’s build up a future talent and prepare for the next senior world cup in Qatar