FIFA U20 World Cup: Tony Alegbe urges Nigeria to be brave against Argentina 

By Wale Mustapha

Former captain of Enyimba, Tony Alegbe has tasked Nigeria U20 men’s team to go into the match with a strong belief as the team take on hosts, Argentina in the knockout stage of FIFA U20 World Cup on Wednesday.

Argentina reached the Round of 16 as group A winners with nine points, while the West Africans claimed one of the best losers spot, with six points from Group D, finishing behind Italy and Brazil.

The 2001 Nigerian league title winner believes that the Nigerian boys have what it takes to beat the South Americans but must remain brave and resolute from start to finish.

“The Flying Eagles, aside from raising their game must be brave and must take the few chances they will create,” Alegbe told CompleteSports.

“They must not do the mistake of taking the battle to them as they did against Brazil, they must defend collectively and hope to catch the host on counter-attack and set-pieces.

“Of course, the Nigerians should not be cowed by the home fans. That is why I said they should be brave and resolute.

“Teamwork will help the Flying Eagles to shock the Argentines. Coach Bosso should feature players that have a ‘never say die’ spirit, players who are ready to shed blood for victory for Nigeria.

“Argentina have the advantage of playing before their vociferous home fans but they have not played against a tough side in the competition.

“Beating Guatemala, Uzbekistan and New Zealand is not enough to access the host country or tip them as favourite for the trophy,” Alegbe said.

The match between the young Albicelestes and Nigeria will take place at the Estadio San Juan del Bicentenario in Pocito Department of San Juan Province by 10pm Nigerian time.