Eaglets vows to beat Mali silly

Golden Eaglets coach, Manu Garba

Members of the national U17 squad, Golden Eaglets have pledged to soundly win their last 2013 African Under-17 qualifying home match against the Junior Eagles of Mali on Sunday.

Eaglets’ star midfielder, Alhassan Ibrahim said it was important that the team wins Sunday’s match with as many goals as possible.

“By the grace of God, we are going to beat Mali on Sunday and we are going to dedicate the goals and victory to the Governor (of Cross River State),” said Ibrahim who is the team’s joint-top scorer on three goals with Isaac Success in the qualifiers so far. 

“We can’t thank Governor Imoke enough,” said the player who is widely regarded as the new Nwankwo Kanu for his guiles and wiles on the ball which is similar to the erstwhile Super Eagles’ captain.

“Right from day one, the Governor told us that Calabar is our home and we have enjoyed our stay in Calabar especially by winning our matches."

Vice captain of the team, Wilfred Ndidi and Izu Omego who have manned the heart of the team's defence agree.

“Sunday’s match against Mali is an opportunity to thank the people of Cross River State and we are determined more than ever to win this important match.

“This is our last home match here and we want to win in a grand style before the second leg in Bamako," they said.

Meanwhile, top officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) led by President Aminu Maigari are already in Calabar to offer maximum support to the team.

“The NFF is happy with you and we want to let you know that we are fully behind you against Mali,” Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme, the Director Technical told the players.

“Fortunately, the first leg of the match is at your home and it would be nice if you can spell Mali and if need be, you can spell Bamako which would be very nice before the second leg in two weeks time.”