Flying Eagles head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, says the men’s national U-20 football team is still a work in progress, adding that the team’s defence needs improvement.

Zubairu stated this on Monday in Ilorin at a meeting with members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kwara chapter.

The gaffer noted that in spite of their victory in the WAFU B championship in Togo, critical areas in the team still needed improvement.

The Flying Eagles’ hard-earned victory in Togo secured Nigeria’s place in the U-20 AFCON billed for South Africa in January 2025.

The U-20 AFCON will also determine the continent’s representatives for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

“I’m somewhat dissatisfied with our defence; we were conceding goals consistently. This vulnerability cannot be overlooked on a larger stage,” he stated.

Zubairu decried the fact that the team had limited time to prepare for WAFU B championship while stressing the need for adequate preparation for future tournaments.

“I had just 37 days from my appointment to the WAFU B tournament, and we retained only three players from the previous squad, necessitating the recruitment of new talents,” he explained.

He also acknowledged the interest from eligible players outside Nigeria, asserting that “We will not hinder their participation and are committed to selecting those with the necessary skills.”

The coach revealed that plans were underway for an early training camp ahead of the U-20 AFCON while underlining the importance of securing a spot in the World Cup.

(NAN)