As Brazil and Nigeria jostle to become the first four-time title holders at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup level, the Golden Eaglets have been tipped to best the boys from the land of Jogo Bonito by a United Arab Emirates’ national newspaper.
In its preview of the second round of matches, the Emirati’s, an influential tabloid, noted that the Golden Eaglets are the only side capable of halting the Brazilians in their stride.
“If Brazil is deemed title favourites, then Nigeria seems the greatest threat to their aspirations,” noted the newspaper, even as it acknowledged the free-scoring style of the Nigerian youngsters. “The West Africans started by thrashing Mexico 6-1 and continued to score freely with eight goals in their next two matches.”
The Golden Eaglets have indeed captivated the fans throughout the UAE and their spirited play has brought them new converts, including Rosalyn Pura Enguerra, a Front Desk Receptionist at their Danat Al Ain Resort camp.
“I love your team (Nigeria) because they play exciting football,” said the cheerful lady from Philippines, who watched a football match live for the first time at Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium last week. “I enjoyed myself when I was at the stadium to watch Nigeria draw 3-3 against Sweden and I think you would go far.”
In a related development, Sudanese Bashir Mohammed, who works at the Al Ain FC Stadium, has prayed for the success of the Golden Eaglets after he got a Nigeria’s jersey as souvenir from an official of the team.
“You have the supppot of all of us from Sudan in Al Ain,” said the elderly man, who also works with the LOC. “Insha Allah (by the grace of Allah) you will beat Iran on Tuesday and we would be praying for your team to win the tournament.”
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