Has NFF Inspired Flying Eagles to Excel at U20 AFCON Qualifiers?

The Flying Eagles are set to begin their defence of the WAFU B U20 championship, but concerns have arisen over low team morale due to limited support and motivation. Reports indicate that the squad has not received outstanding bonuses and allowances from the 2023 U20 AFCON and U20 World Cup, and they have also not been given camp allowances since assembling for training in Abuja a month ago.

So far, the only financial support received by the players was a one million naira gift from Kunle Soname, owner of Remo Stars. Additionally, no senior officials from the NFF have accompanied the team to Togo, and the team has faced challenges in securing competitive warm up matches, settling for friendlies against academy teams instead of clubs from the NPFL or NNL. The Flying Eagles’ first qualifying match against Burkina Faso will take place tomorrow at 4 pm at Lome’s Municipal Stadium.

Editorial

As the Flying Eagles prepare for the U20 AFCON qualifiers, we can’t help but reflect on the importance of robust support and motivation for our national teams. This upcoming tournament is a crucial step for these young players, yet the lack of allowances, absence of senior NFF officials, and limited resources for proper warm up matches could hinder their ability to perform at their best. The football federation’s role extends beyond administration it must ensure these players feel backed, motivated, and prepared to compete on the continental stage.

The absence of Grade A test games, replaced with friendlies against academy teams, suggests that the team may not be as prepared as they could be. For a team defending a title, it’s crucial to undergo rigorous preparation. We urge the NFF to adopt a proactive approach in supporting our youth teams by addressing these financial and logistical gaps. Investing in these players is investing in Nigeria’s football future, and we believe the Flying Eagles deserve every opportunity to showcase their talent and bring glory to Nigeria.

As the tournament kicks off, we hope the Flying Eagles will rise above these challenges and bring their best game to the field. This is a moment for our football community to rally behind them, demonstrating that regardless of the obstacles, the Nigerian spirit of resilience and determination will shine through.

Did You Know?

1. The WAFU U20 Championship serves as a regional qualifier for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, a key tournament for young talent.
2. Nigerian youth teams have historically performed well at international tournaments, winning the U20 AFCON seven times.
3. Kunle Soname, who supported the Flying Eagles with a financial gift, is also the first Nigerian to own a European football club, C.D. Feirense in Portugal.
4. Many of Nigeria’s football stars, including Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi, first gained international recognition through youth tournaments like the U20 AFCON.
5. The Flying Eagles’ journey to the U20 AFCON qualifiers reflects Nigeria’s strategic investment in grassroots football to sustain long-term national team success.