U20 World Cup: Zubairu Blames Poor Display For Flying Eagles’ Exit

U20 World Cup: Zubairu Blames Poor Display For Flying Eagles’ Exit

Sampson Adedeji

Following their elimination from the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu has expressed disappointment over his players’ poor performance in the 4–0 defeat to Argentina, BSNSports.com.ng reports. 

Zubairu, who watched helplessly as the South Americans outclassed his side in the round of 16, admitted that Nigeria’s slow start and early goals conceded completely derailed their tactical game plan. 

“The early goal was part of what destabilized us. We conceded too early, and the second goal came shortly after,” Zubairu said during his post-match interview. 

“That completely affected our approach to the game. However, I must say the boys didn’t show enough positive character today.”

The Flying Eagles had progressed to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams but were unable to replicate their earlier form against a dominant Argentine side.