Buhari urges Golden Eaglets to retain their world U17 crown as they face USA today

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has charged the Golden Eaglets to go and defend their crown at the U17 World Cup taking place in Chile as they get set to kick off their tournament against the US today.

 

In 2013, the Golden Eaglets lifted the U17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, beating Mexico 3-0 in the final. They now aim to defend their title when they take on the Americans in Santiago at 9pm tonight and President Buhari has urged to the team to do so as it will provide the nation with a much-needed Christmas present.

 

According to President Buhari the Golden Eaglets should do their utmost best to match the outstanding performance of their victorious predecessors who have won the competition four times including the inaugural edition in 1985 and the last tournament in 2013. He assured them and their handlers of the full support of the federal government and all Nigerians as they strive to bring more sporting glory to their fatherland by outplaying all their opponents and winning the Under-17 World Cup for a record fifth time.

 

Femi Adesina, President Buhari's spokesman, said: “President Buhari will follow the team’s progress through the tournament in Chile with keen interest and high expectation in the belief that the boys have the skills, dedication and determination required to make Nigeria world champions at the youth level once again.”

 

President Buhari also called on the players to stay focused, avoid all distractions and put their globally acknowledged skills, ability and doggedness on display against USA today. They later face hosts Chile on October 20 and Croatia on October 23.