2023 U-17 AFCON: Eaglets eye knockout stages

The Golden Eaglets of Nigeria will have a chance to advance to the quarter-final phase of the ongoing 2023 U-17 African Cup of Nations when they take on South Africa on Saturday in their last group-stage game of the campaign.

The Nduka Ugbade-led team will be going into Saturday’s match after their 1-0 loss to Morocco in their last outing, and they will be looking for a victory over South Africa to book a slot in the next phase of the tournament.

As it stands, both teams have three points after two games, but the Eaglets sit above the Bafanas due to a goal difference advantage.

The Nigerian U-17 will be going into the Saturday crucial match against South Africa with no new injuries or suspension concerns as the team players are in good shape and are in contention for the clash.

Golden Eaglets manager, Nduka Ugbade is not expected to make huge changes to the team that started in their last game against Morocco, as many of the players that made the lineup are expected to retain their respective spots against South Africa on Saturday night.

Ahead of the game, Ugbade, wants his team to be efficient and convert their chances to goals, as they had 27 chances against Morocco but only found the target four times.

“We must be more efficient with the chances we have. We will try to look for some different ways, tactically, to impact the outcome of the game. We have a chance, but also, that chance can fade away. We have to work hard,” Ugbade said.

Apart from qualifying for the next round and winning the trophy, the Golden Eaglets would need to sit up, as only teams who make it to the semi-finals would be able to represent Africa at the U-17 World Cup tournament set to take place later this year.