U-17 AFCON: Eaglets jet out to Tanzania

Five-time world champions Golden Eaglets flew out of Abuja on Wednesday to Tanzania to take part in the 13th Africa U-17 Cup of Nations scheduled for April 14 to 28.

Players and officials were seen off at the airport by NFF vice president, Seyi Akinwunmi, who charged them to do the nation proud by lifting the U-17 AFCON trophy in Dar es Salaam on April 28.

The Eaglets secured their ticket to Tanzania after winning the WAFU B U-17 Tournament in Niger Republic last September, and will be aiming to be one of Africa’s four flag-bearers at the 2019 U-17 World Cup in Brazil.

Nigeria, Africa’s U-17 football powerhouse, edged rivals Ghana on penalties in Niamey to secure their slot in Tanzania, and are in Group A with hosts Tanzania, Uganda and Angola.

Tanzania made their way into the draw automatically as hosts, while Uganda won the Central East zonal finals, and Angola triumphed at the COSAFA U-17 Tournament.

Nigeria are making their ninth appearance in the competition, having won it twice previously (Seychelles 2001 and Togo 2007).

Cameroon, Guinea, Senegal and Morocco make up Group B.

The Eaglets take on Tanzania in Sunday’s tournament opener at the National Stadium, Dar es Salaam.

Nigeria legend Emmanuel Amuneke, who is head coach of Tanzania’s national team, Taifa Stars, also oversees the country’s other national teams and is involved in their technical preparation.

After Sunday’s encounter, the Eaglets will tackle Angola on April 17 and confront Uganda on April 20 in their final group game. Punch