The head coach of the Golden Eaglets, Nduka Ugbade, names three Amajimbos South Africans should keep an eye out for, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian under-17 had a tough evening against the South African starlets, who mounted pressure on the West Africans’ defence during their last group game tie at the Mohamed Hamlaoui Stadium.
Following Nigeria’s narrow victory against Duncan Crowie’s boys, then Ugbade singled out Mabena Siyabonga, Mkhawana Vicky and Dokunmu Michael, who wreaked havoc on Nigeria’s defence.
Mkhawana opened the scoring for the South Africans in the sixth minute of the game, and as well sent a beautiful pass to Mabena who handed the Southern Africans the lead again after Charles Agada had levelled the scoreline.
After the game, Ugbade recognised the difficulty of the contest and the quality of the opposition, mentioning three notable players who stood out.
“It was a really tough match because South Africa is a really good team, and they gave us a tough time. They have three players that are really good; Mabena (Siyabonga), Mkhawana (Vicky) and Dokunmu (Michael). They are very talented players, and I was honestly scared of them at first,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ugbade was seen embracing Mabena, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns, in a photo posted by Francis Achi, the media officer for the National U-17 squad of Nigeria, and stated that he has a bright future.
“You have a very bright future in football. Allow me to hug, please,” Ugbade said, as quoted by Achi.
Nduka Ugbade, coach of the Golden Eaglets in a warmth embrace with Siyabonga Mabena, the MVP.
“You have a very bright future in football. Allow me to hug please,” says Nduka Ugbade.
The young Mabene was simply amazed by Ugbade’s gesture. pic.twitter.com/sYIK11tObH— Francis Achi (@totorimaster) May 6, 2023
The last Group C encounter between Cameroon and Burkina Faso will be closely watched by South Africa, who are aiming for a win to sneak them into the quarterfinals.
