U-17 World Cup: FIFA hails Golden Eaglets

FOOTBALL, SPORTS

Blatter says: “On behalf of the international football family, I would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the team (Golden Eaglets)”

The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) on Wednesday hailed the victorious Golden Eaglets for their triumph at the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

A statement from Ademola Olajire, the Assistant Director (Media), Nigeria Football Association (NFA) in Abuja, said FIFA President, Sepp Blatter, sent a letter describing the Golden Eaglets as worthy winners.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Golden Eaglets won their record fourth U-17 World Cup title at the 2013 edition of the tournament which was held from Oct. 17 to Nov. 8.

Nigeria took the title following a 3-0 defeat of Mexico who they had earlier beaten 6-1 in the preliminary stage.

The statement said the letter was addressed to NFA President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari.

“The FIFA U-17 World Cup UAE 2013 lived up to all its promises with some thrilling matches, fantastic goals, incredible emotions and unbelievable twists and turns.

“All of these combined to keep the fans on the edges of their seats on the final day in Abu Dhabi last Friday.

“In the end, the Nigeria U-17 team saw off the challenge of their Mexican counterparts to claim an unprecedented fourth world title following previous triumphs in 1985, 1993 and 2007.

“On behalf of the international football family, I would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the team.

“I also want to congratulate their coach and the entire technical, administrative and medical team, and to all your fans,’’ Blatter said.

Blatter observed that the team’s victory was a product of hard work and professionalism.

“Victories such as these are always based on hard work, professionalism, and attention to detail, as well as passion and a love for the game.

“I have no doubt that all of these bode well for a very bright future, and wish you continued success with your work in the years to come,’’ FIFA president said.

Worthy of note are the individual honours won by the Nigerian players. Kelechi Ihenacho unsurprisingly became the most decorated, winning the tournament’s Adidas Golden Ball Award for the overall best player, alongside the Silver Boot Award for being the second highest goal scorer

Nigerian goalkeeper, Dele Alampasu also won the Adidas Golden Gloves Award while the entire team won the FIFA Fair Play Award.

Nigeria has now become the most successful team in FIFA Under-17 World Cup history.

Meanwhile the world football governing body has invited Eaglet players, Kelechi Iheanacho and Dele Alampasu to the FIFA Ballon D’or gala in Zurich on Jan. 13, 2014.