As preparations intensify for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, the Head Coach of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, Aliyu Zubairu, has revealed plans to invite new players to strengthen all departments of the team.
Speaking at the Kwara SWAN Hard Talk held at the Taiwo Awoniyi Media Sports Centre, SWAN Secretariat, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, Coach Zubairu admitted that his squad struggled with goal conversion during the recently concluded U-20 AFCON in Morocco.
He assured that the upcoming additions would bring more balance and efficiency, addressing key deficiencies observed in the team.
Coach Zubairu, who was recently recognized by his Agbarere community, noted that handling pressure—positive or negative—is an integral part of football. According to him, the ability to manage expectations is what separates successful coaches.
The El-Kanemi Warriors coach also expressed his ambition to surpass the 2005 milestone set by Samson Siasia, who led Nigeria to the final of the U20 World Cup that year.
Reporting by Sodiq Adebara