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FIFA U-20 World Cup: Aliyu Zubairu takes responsibility as Flying Eagles bow to Argentina
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigeria’s U-20 national team head coach, Aliyu Zubairu has reacted to Nigeria’s 4–0 loss to Argentina in the Round of 16 of the FIFA U-20 World Cup, admitting that his side’s early mistakes proved costly.
Speaking during his post-match press conference, Zubair expressed disappointment over his team’s inability to recover after conceding twice in quick succession.
“I think the early goal is part of what destabilised us. We conceded very early, and even the second goal came not too far from the first. That brought about the destabilisation in our approach,” the coach said.
Despite the heavy defeat, Zubair praised his players for their effort and positive attitude, but he lamented their lack of aggression and reaction after losing possession.
“The level of our fight off the ball was not enough. That’s what gave the Argentines a lot of opportunity and space to operate. Anytime we lost the ball, we weren’t fighting back quickly,” he added.
The coach acknowledged that the result was a harsh lesson for the young Nigerian side, stressing that such experiences are vital for their growth and development.
“It’s football. I am part of it. I take the blame and responsibility. The day they win, they win, and as they lost today, I take responsibility,” Zubair concluded.
Nigeria got eliminated in the Round of 16 after a 4–0 defeat to Argentina.
