Nigeria U20 national team Kogi-born duo of Ojo Olorunleke and Akinjide Idowu have stated their ambition at helping the side emerge champions at the African Youth Championship in Senegal.
The duo, who played a part in the 4-1 victory over Congo to land a semi-final place and Fifa U20 World Cup ticket, insist their team is resolute on remaining invincible in the competition.
Olorunleke, who came on as a substitute after Joshua Enaholo’s sending off and is expected to start due to Dele Alampasu’s injury, assured that he will give a clinical performance against the Ivorians.
“We are here to win the tournament though it is going to be tough. But we are determined to win as one big family. My target is to return home with the trophy,” Olorunleke told Goal.
“I’m not bothered not starting in the (first two games) because all the goalkeepers picked were good and deserved to be at the tournament. My focus is just on giving my best anytime I’m called upon and I hope to do my best and not to disappoint Nigerians,” he said.
However, Idowu who is fondly called ‘Super 4’ said the team is very intact and the quality tactics of the coaches are enough to stir the team to success.
“We are all here to win. The game against Congo is important to us all. We all shared one ambition and goal which is to win the competition. We know it’s going to be tough but we are well-prepared for the challenges,” Idowu told Goal.
“Our technical crew has really educated, informed us about the approach for the game. We are not missing anybody. We have no super star here because most of us all started together, so no one is bigger than the other in the team. We are united in the defence, midfield and attack.
“The coaches made the best choice of players and I believe with God on our side, we will come out victorious. I have no personal ambition, but help the team win every game and bring back the trophy,” said the product of the NNPC/Shell Cup.
Manu Garba’s superlative Flying Eagles will face Cote d’Ivoire in the final group game on Saturday as they hope to make it three wins in a row.
