The General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, has enjoined the Flying Eagles to live up to expectations by lifting the FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand.
The NFF’s head of administration watched the Flying Eagles’ last training session in Nurnberg, Germany on Saturday morning, after which he addressed the team.
Sanusi said: “We pray that God will uplift you.
“You were the first team to give me a trophy when I assumed office as General Secretary.
“That was the African Youth Championship.
“It was three days after I got into office.
“I now pray that you give me the World Cup.
“Nothing is impossible with prayers and determination.
“Hard work combined with prayers will make the impossible possible.”
Sanusi again pledged the total support of the NFF to the team.
“You will not lack anything in New Zealand and I believe you will deliver,” he assured the team.
The General Secretary also commended the coaches and backroom staff for doing well thus far, saying the sky will be just their stepping stone.
Taiwo Awoniyi responded to the heart-warming remarks of the NFF chieftain on behalf of the team.
Awoniyi said: “We thank you for this visit.
“We are very encouraged by this and we will justify the confidence you have in this team.
“The mentality of this team right from the U-17 level is that we play all our matches like a Cup final and win them.
“We know the expectations back in Nigeria are that we win the World Cup.
“This has not put us under any unnecessary pressure, but rather it has boosted our confidence so that we will return to Nigeria as world champions.”