A Golden Eaglets player Mathew Kingsley, has admitted that the just concluded AFCON U-17 tournament in Algeria is a beautiful experience he would cherish for long.
Golden Eaglets representing Nigeria at the AFCON U-17, failed to reach the tournament’s semi-final. The former world champions got knocked out in the quarter-finals by Burkina Faso.
Read also: Golden Eaglets : We’re Ready For AFCON U-17
And despite the shortcomings of the team, versatile player, Mathew confessed that it’s a beautiful experience.
Also, the player expressed sadness over the failure of the team to secure a FIFA U-17 World Cup spot. Because the biennial AFCON tournament, is normally used as a FIFA U-17 W’Cup qualification. That is, the four teams that qualify for the semifinals, automatically gets world cup tickets.
AFCON U-17 a beautiful experience
“Obviously it was a beautiful experience for me. Sadly, we could not qualify for the World Cup, but in all honesty, if we ( the players) continue to work hard, we will reap from the experience of playing at U- 17 AFCON tournament in Algeria,” Kingsley was quoted by Totorinews.
And while speaking further about his footballing career, the teenager said he’s committed. And is also ready to put in whatever efforts that is needed so he can achieve his dreams of playing professional football.
Read also: AFCON U-17 : We Still Have A Chance – Ugbade
“I’m fully focused, committed to football as a career. It is my desire and passion and I know that with hard work and total dedication, I will take my game to another higher realm,” he added.
The Nduka Ugbade tutored team performed incredibly well at the AFCON U-17, but were just unlucky in front of goal.
And due to their unique performances, the team was awarded the Fair Play award for group games.
Also, in related development, Super Eagles defender, Kenneth Omeruo, charged the Nigeria Football Federation NFF, to integrate the boys into the Flying Eagles (U-20) team.
According to Omeruo, the players are exceptionally good, and needed time to develop to their full potentials.
