The 14th edition of the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco later in the new year, with Nigeria among the favourites for the title
Head coach of the Nigeria U-17 national team Fatai Amoo has revealed that he would put all his efforts into inspiring the Golden Eaglets boys to success, insisting that is the legacy he’s working to leave behind in football.
Having previously managed a few NPFL clubs and the national U-20 team, Amoo was appointed to lead the cadet side late last year.
The former Julius Berger gaffer overcame stiff challenges and unfavourable odds to guide the Golden Eaglets to the final of the WAFU B regional tournament in Togo, where they lost to Ivory Coast.
As runners-up, Nigeria secured one of the two qualifying tickets for the 2021 Africa U-17 Cup of Nations.
And the five-time world champions will battle against Cote d’Ivoire, Algeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, South Africa, defending champions Cameroon and host Morocco for the continent’s top prize.
Golden Eaglets are expected to proceed to camp to begin preparations shortly, and Amoo maintains he will not bow to pressure to overhaul the team.
The veteran coach insists he is more focused on building a team for the future and leaving a lasting legacy.
“I know there will be pressure from many quarters, but it is my responsibility not to fall into such trap,” the former Flying Eagles tactician told New Telegraph.
“I have confidence in the boys that went to Togo; there could be one or two players joining them to fortify the team, but there won’t be overhaul of the team because these boys are good, and they are hungry to represent their fatherland and prosper in the game.
“I have a dream which is to make these players succeed; I will die happy, knowing that I’ve left such an amazing legacy in this world. I will do all I have in my power to bring back the glory of Nigerian football at this level.”
The U-17 AFCON was earlier scheduled for July 19, but the kickoff date has been moved to March 19.
Nigeria are two-time winners of the competition, soaring to continental glory in 2001 and 2007.
