The National Sports Commission (NSC) has applauded Nigeria Under-20 male football team, the Flying Eagles for clinching a semi-final spot at the ongoing AFCON U20 tournament in Egypt and securing their place at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.
The Aliyu Zubairu-led team achieved the emarkable milestone by defeating the defending champions, Senegal, in the quarter-finals of the tournament on Monday at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia, Egypt.
An elated chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, praised the team’s performance, noting their consistent growth with each match, which ultimately led to a superior display against their Senegalese rivals.
“I must thank the Nigeria Football Federation for this qualification achievement, which reflects the collective resilience of the players and their coaching staff,” he stated.
“The boys’ performance thus far is a testament to the hard work invested in the team’s preparation and training,” Dikko said.
“We have an excellent record at this level, and today’s (Monday) performance proves it. On behalf of all Nigerians and Mr President, I urge them to remain focused until they win the tournament.”
Director-general of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, noted that the Flying Eagles’ accomplishment represents yet another success story for the country from its various sports federations.
“It is not a coincidence that so many of our national teams across different sports are delivering impressive performances at international competitions.
“This can be attributed to the mandate given to us, as Mr President is very intentional about the sustainability of the country’s sports development from the grassroots level.
“This is why we are committed to adequately funding the various federations, ensuring that our players and athletes receive the support they need to excel while representing the country,” the DG said.
He further expressed confidence that, having successfully secured their World Cup ticket for Chile, the Flying Eagles now have the potential to win the tournament.
Nigeria will face South Africa in one of the semi-final matches for a place in the final, while the other semi-final will feature a North African clash between hosts Egypt and Morocco.