WAFU B U17 Championship: Five observations from Golden Eaglets 3-2 win against Black Starlets

Nigeria clinched the bronze medal of the WAFU B U17 Championship on Tuesday evening.following a 3-2 victory over host Ghana. 

Imrana Muhammed and Abdulmuiz Adeleke scored for the Golden Eaglets while Herve Gbarfa was on target for Ghana. 

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the match

1 Manu Garba outsmarted tactically 

Despite securing the bronze medal with a 3-2 victory over Ghana, Nigeria's coach, Manu Garba, was outsmarted tactically by his counterpart. 

Garba's team struggled to maintain possession and were dominated by the Ghanaian team's quick passing and understanding of the game.

The Black Starlets constantly broke through Nigeria's midfield, forcing them to defend for most of the match. 

Nigeria relied on the strength and speed of their forwards to counterattack and keep Ghana at bay.

2. Nigeria struggle defensively 

The Golden Eaglets have demonstrated strong defensive skills throughout the championship, but encountered difficulties when playing against the host team.

In the tournament, Nigeria has only let in one goal in four games, but unfortunately, conceded two goals in the first half of the match against Ghana.

The goals that were conceded can be attributed to a weak defensive performance and inadequate communication among the defenders.

3. Poor Second half performance 

Nigeria managed to net two goals in the opening half of the match but encountered difficulties in the second half before eventually sealing a last-minute victory.

The Eaglets found it challenging to break free from their defensive positioning as Ghana controlled the majority of the game.

Nonetheless, the Eaglets clinched the win thanks to a late goal inside the box by AbdulMuiz Adeleke.

4. Abdulmuiz Adeleke decisive, impresses For Nigeria

The youngster was the difference maker for Nigeria against Ghana. 

Consistently posing a threat to Ghana's defense, Adeleke showcased his strength and skill against both center backs throughout the match.

Ultimately, he clinched the crucial goal in the final minute of the game with a right-footed shot from within the 18-yard box.

5. Michael Armah shaky in goal 

While the Ghanaian team put on a dominant performance, goalkeeper Michael Armah appeared unsteady between the posts. 

Armah showed signs of struggle, particularly during Nigeria's second goal when he failed to prevent Adeleke's header from finding the back of the net. 

In the second half, he came close to gifting Nigeria a goal, as he mishandled a long-range strike from Mustapha, which posed a threat to his goal.

Adeyemi Adewale

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