Future Eagles Depart Nigeria For Japan 26th May

Future Eagles Depart Nigeria For Japan 26th May 

Gbenga Gboyega

Usman Haruna Ilerika, head coach of the national U15 team has informed that they will depart for Japan on May 26, as he revealed that he doesn't have an idea of the teams that will compete in the four-nation tournament billed for 29th of May in Japan, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Ilerika in an exclusive chat with BSN Sports in Abuja spoke on his team's preparations, what to expect and the other teams billed for the tourney, if he has a dossier of them.

What is in stock regarding the U15 team?

"As usual, it's a developmental process in the Federation, and that's what we have been doing. 

"We resumed camp some time ago and we've departed to our various destinations.

"What we are looking forward to is attending a U16 tournament in far away Japan.

"It's an invitational tournament that will be starting on the 29th of May, and possibly we might be leaving on the 26th.

"The last phase of camping will be around the 16th to 17th of this month (May). 

"And it's about development, and citing the players that can progress, either to play in the U17 or U20 teams."

How many players are featuring, and how many countries will be gathering?

"It's a four-nation tournament. We were there in 2019, and I know the host country (Japan) is always one, then they invite three other countries from three different continents.

"That is always the composition."

Any ideas about the countries showing up?

"I was told that the Netherlands is a part of, but I'm not aware of the fourth country."

What are the expectations for the team? Winning the tournament, or progression?

"The dream of every coach is to win laurels and tournaments for themselves.

"But at the same time, when you are looking at youth development it's not really about winning at that level, but about how you can identify those that can be bigger at a later stage.

"Either at the U17, U20 or even the Super Eagles. But one should go with the mindset of defending your country and winning.

"Give the boys the mileage of being a champion, and give your country the onions of champions as well.

"But that does not mean when results go bad, that certain positives are not attained from participating in the tournament."

In the second phase of the training, players are expected in camp, and players are selected.

"We are expecting about 25 players at the camp, and it's going to be for today before leave.

"And by the rules, I think 18 is expected to travel for the competition."

How much information is on the opponents?

"The only opponent I have little details on is the host nation, because it's youth development, none of these boys have been playing at any International competition where one can do research and get details on their style of play. 

"All of us are developing. But we are going there informed. I have seen YouTube clips on the Japanese U16 teams, but not the U15 teams. 

"So, I'm not sure yet on the team they are going to present."