Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu has downplayed the significance of his side’s second-place finish in Group B of the ongoing U20 AFCON tournament, insisting that advancing to the quarter-finals was a more important objective for his boys, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria recorded one win and two draws to finish second in their group behind Morocco enjoyed a more impressive group stage campaign, posting a record of two wins and one draw to finish on top of the group.
The Flying Eagles faced Kenya in their final group stage match, needing a convincing win to stay in contention for the top spot in Group B. However, the record champions had to claw their way back into the game twice, eventually settling for a thrilling 2-2 draw.
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Aliyu Zubairu’s reaction
Coach Zubairu, speaking after what was overall an unconvincing display from his charges, explained why the Flying Eagles struggled against the Rising Stars and maintained that they had done the ‘most important’ job.
“It was not an easy match, the Kenyans have played two games previously which they lost,” coach Zubairu began at a post match press conference as per Brila.
“They came all out so that they don’t leave the competition without getting a win. That’s why the game was difficult. All the same, it was a good game.
“I want to correct an impression, of course many Nigerians will be disappointed with the result because of the opposition but what is important is for us to get to the next stage, which is the quarter-final.”
What next?
Having booked their place among the last eight, the Flying Eagles now have to wait a bit before they learn who their opponent will be in the next round.
Meanwhile, coach Zubairu believes the quarter-finals will be the Flying Eagles’ most important game in this tournament as progression to the last four will see his side secure a World Cup berth in Chile later this year.
“I believe the quarter-final is the most important match of the competition. We need to work on the psyche of the players towards that next match, that is very important. We want to go to the World Cup, we must win the match. We will start preparing immediately.”
As for the Rising Stars of Kenya, they bow out of the competition after finishing bottom of Group B.
