The U17 team of Nigeria yesterday departed Nigeria for Tanzania where they will take part in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, which is also the qualifiers for the U17 World Youth Championship.
Owngoalnigeria.com Ade Emmanuel who monitored the camping of the team in Abuja picks five players who will likely be the star attraction in the Nigerian team.
Samson Tijani – The captain of the Nigerian team need no introduction. He leads the team in a unique way on and off the pitch. Voted the Most Valuable Player ( MVP) at the WAFU B U17 Championship, there all fears about his MRI test result but if he scales the final hurdle then Africa will probably catch a glimpse of the next big thing to emerge from Nigeria.
Olakunle Olusegun – The talisman of the Nigerian team who can do no wrong in front of goal. Scores from half chances and also creates. A candidate for the top scorer award if he brings his A game to the tournament.
Olatomi Olaniyan – Brings balance, creativity and flair to the Nigerian team. Has the ability to produce the goods even when not expected. Quick and direct in his approach, he was the catalyst which helped Nigeria recover from a goal down in the final of the WAFU B U17 Championship against Ghana which they eventually won on penalties.
Fawaz Abdullahi – A defensive midfielder who also has an eye for a pass. Links up well with captain Tijani in the midfield. Reads and intercept play with ease and also love to get stuck in when the need arises.
Adesina Gata – Not many expect him to be a starter but the ABS forward who operates mainly as a winger could be the joker in the Nigerian team for the U17 AFCON. Not just quick but delivers his crosses with precision.
Abdulrazaq Shuaib Oyindamola – Profited from the axing of Hassan Hussein who failed the MRI age test but his inclusion is strictly on merit as he is probably the most attack minded midfielder in the Nigerian team. Can pick a pass from range and also has the ability to thread final passes most don’t see.
