FIFA U17 World Cup : Ex-African Footballer Of The Year Warns On Golden Eaglets Pressure

Nigeria's final 21-man squad for the 2019 FIFA World Cup is expected to be submitted to FIFA on Wednesday and as the Golden Eaglets hunt for a sixth title shot in Brazil, former Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba has called for caution from expectant Nigerian fans.

Ikpeba who himself was in Nigeria's U-17 World Cup in 1989 when Scotland hosted the tournament bared his mind on Super Sports.

"This (World Cup in Brazil) is the beginning for these young lads, this is their stepping stone," Ikpeba noted.

"I'm happy because looking at them, they look young . I commend the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). It's not about winning the U-17 World Cup but seeing that they progress to the U-20, U-23 then the Super Eagles.

Speaking on fans' expectations as Nigeria are the most successful team in the cadet tournament, Ikpeba called for caution.

"I hope they do well in Brazil but they are not condemned to winning the tournament. Let them go and show us their talents.

"Nobody 30 years ago could have imagined that I will play in big leagues in Europe. It's a good competition for these youngsters and I give FIFA commendation for their vision," the onetime Standard Liege, AS Monaco, Real Betis and Borussia Dortmund superstar stated.

Five-time U17 world champions Nigeria will face Hungary, Ecuador and Australia in Group B of the tournament with the clash against Hungary their first match on October 26.

The 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup will hold between 26 October to 17 November.

Izuchukwu Okosi