If Messi and Neymar could do it, my players can－ El Kanemi coach Aliyu Zubairu backs youngsters for continental football

El Kanemi coach Aliyu Zubairu has affirmed his belief in his players after their 2-0 victory over Abia Warriors in the final of the President’s Federation Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.

Coach Zubairu led El Kanemi to their first Federation Cup title in 32 years after an impressive 2-0 win over Abia Warriors at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos. A brace from Nasiru Salihu sealed the win for the Borno-based club.

El Kanemi played in the NNL last season, but gained promotion after finishing second. However, their Federation Cup victory ensured that they will be one of Nigeria’s four representatives on the continent.

El Kanemi will play in the CAF Confederations Cup alongside Enyimba, who finished second in the Nigeria Premier Football League in the just-concluded season.

Currently, coach Zubairu has a lot of young players in his squad, a major characteristic of team playing in the lower tiers of Nigerian football. However, he is not worried, as he believes that his youngsters would perform if they get the opportunity.

“If the Europeans are believing in young players, what is stopping from believing in them,” Zubairu said, per 54footballx.

“If Messi and Neymar could break through at a very tender age, what is stopping our own players?

“I’m not saying that we don’t have older players that can go to the tournament and do better, but don’t deprive the younger ones of that opportunity.

“Age does not play football, it is your understanding of the game. But the younger the better.

Despite Zubairu’s statements, El Kanemi would have to improve on what their current squad if they want to do well in the top flight and the Confederations Cup.