U20 AFCON: Nigeria, South Africa U20 Coaches Turn Their Attention To Finishing Third

Published: February 16, 2019

Flying Eagles coach Paul Aigbogun has given his thoughts ahead of Saturday's Africa U20 Cup of Nations third place playoff between his team and South Africa at Stade Général Seyni Kountché, Niamey.

Nigeria, Africa's most successful team in U20 AFCON history, missed out on an opportunity to contest Sunday's showpiece after losing on penalties to Mali and Aigbogun has stated that they want to finish well.

South Africa held the seven-time champions to a goalless draw when both teams faced off in a Group A clash eleven days ago.

''We’ve forgotten about the semifinal game and now our focus is on the third place match to finish the tournament which has been great for us,'' said Aigbogun to reporters at Friday's pre-match press conference.

South Africa, who were beaten by pre-tournament favorites Senegal in the semifinals, will win a medal for the second time in the competition if they overcome their opponents from West Africa.

''For us every game is important we approach every game with the same mentality which is to win every game. This is another opportunity for our player and for us as a team to try and win,'' said South Africa head coach Thabo Senong.

Third place would be the fourth time the Flying Eagles have finished in that position after winning bronze medals in 1995, 2009 and 2013.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : thenff.com