The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has informed the Ambassador of Argentina to Nigeria, Alejandro Herrero, that the Flying Eagles have a burning desire to win the upcoming FIFA U20 World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.
Gusau made the declaration during a visit to the ambassador as the NFF looks to begin the processes that will make the Flying Eagles' trip to Argentina for the Mundial a smooth affair.
Gusau appreciated Mr. Herrero and his team for receiving the NFF delegation at short notice and expressed Nigeria's desire to make history at the championship.
The football administrator recalled the 2005 U20 World Cup final, where Argentina defeated Nigeria 2-1, and expressed his hope that the Flying Eagles would go all the way this time.
He also praised Argentina's footballing pedigree and expressed his belief that the country would provide a warm and cordial environment for all teams.
What was said?
“Our two senior teams have enjoyed close contests at the FIFA World Cup level so many times, but I remember that at U20 level, we met in the Final in 2005, which Argentina won by a slim 2-1 margin in The Netherlands,” Gusau said, as per Eagle Online.
“This time, we want to go all the way and we believe Argentina will provide that warm and cordial environment to achieve our target.
“I know Argentina is a great football nation and that she is fully aware of what is required before accepting the hosting right.
“Every football fan all over the world wants to be in Argentina because of the country’s pedigree.
“It will be an interesting FIFA U20 World Cup for all teams, including Nigeria.”
Ambassador Herrero expressed confidence in Argentina's ability to organize an excellent tournament, despite receiving the hosting rights less than five weeks before the championship.
Herrero assured the NFF delegation that his country would give everything to deliver a smooth and superb tournament while promising that the Flying Eagles would suffer no visa processing issues.
The challenge ahead
The FIFA U20 World Cup finals were moved to Argentina from Indonesia, but the competition period remains the same.
The tournament will see Argentina compete in Group A alongside Uzbekistan, Guatemala, and New Zealand, while Nigeria will play Italy, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic in Group D.
The Flying Eagles will play their first two matches against the Dominican Republic and Italy in Mendoza before flying to La Plata to play Brazil on May 27.
The four host cities for the 24-nation championship are La Plata, Santiago del Estero, San Juan, and Mendoza.
