AFCON U23: Olympic Eagles Will Continue To Develop, Says Yusuf

Salisu Yusuf says his Olympic Eagles will continue to develop into a compact squad.

The Olympic Eagles on Saturday at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba defeated Tanzania counterparts 2-0 to qualify for the final round of the U23 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) on 3-1 aggregate, after the first leg in Dar es Salaam ended in a one all draw.

According to the Kano Pillars coach after the game:”The first half wasn’t easy because of the weather. They were very compact and often hit us on the counter. Our build-up was slow and we found it difficult to penetrate. We had to step up our circulation and the ball moved well.

“It has not been easy putting the team together. The player is good but they lacked match fitness. We had to build them to a good level. I believe the team will continue to develop. There is progress in the team.

“It’s all about team building. There was no connection at that stage. How many days did we converge? It is not easy building a team. We won the game and that’s most important.

“Ibadan had been great for us. We appreciate the town. Ibadan is our home.”

After a nervy first half, Ogunniyi Omojesu opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 61st minute from a sublime free kick.

‘Captain Fantastic’ Success Makanjuola then put the icing on the cake In the 69th minute from the penalty spot.

Nigeria will host the winner between Uganda or Guinea in the final round of the U23 AFCON Qualifiers.