WAFU-B U17: Golden Eaglets forced to train on poor pitch ahead of Niger clash

Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets were forced to hold their final training session ahead of their opening match at the WAFU-B U17 Championship on a termite-infested five-a-side pitch in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on Tuesday, 13 October.

The Nigerian team had been scheduled to train at the USFA football pitch, but the delegation reportedly discovered on arrival that the facility’s owners had arranged a friendly match for the same time.

The development forced the team to move to a nearby five-a-side pitch beside the main facility, where the playing surface was in poor condition and unsuitable for preparations ahead of an international tournament.

Golden Eaglets’ preparations disrupted by venue change

Nigeria‘s U17 team manager, Paul Okwudolor, reportedly attempted to contact the tournament organisers to address the situation, but his efforts were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

The unexpected change left the players and technical crew disappointed, having been denied access to the scheduled training venue for their final preparations.

However, the team resolved to put the setback behind them and focus on their opening fixture against Niger Republic on Wednesday, 14 October.

Golden Eaglets target positive start in WAFU-B U17 Championship

The Golden Eaglets, five-time  FIFA U17 World Cup champions, are seeking a strong start to their campaign as they pursue qualification for the 2027 U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Nigeria must navigate the group stage before advancing to the knockout rounds, with the regional competition serving as the qualifying tournament for next year’s continental championship.

Despite the disruption to their preparations, the Nigerian youngsters will be keen to channel their attention towards the pitch and begin their campaign on a positive note.

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