Golden Eaglets coach, Manu Garba, is not expecting Tuesday’s second round tie against Iran to enter into penalty shootout nevertheless, but has charged his team to ensure they leave no stone unturned as they look to book the ticket for the quarter-finals of the ongoing FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Garba’s men will look to break down the compact and solid defence of Team Melli at the Khalifa Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain today (Tuesday) as the Eaglets tactician remains optimistic of Nigeria’s chances of reaching the next round.
“We would ensure that we win this game within the regulation time and we are looking at the possibility of not allowing the game to be dragged into a penalty shootout,” said the Eaglets boss.
“Yes, I agree that Iran has been making progress since they started but they won’t progress beyond the second round at the expense of Nigeria on Tuesday.
Coach Garba again reiterated his stance that the three-time champions, Nigeria, have been destined to repeat another successful outing at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup on Asian soil for a record fourth time.
“All Nigeria’s previous victories, in 1985, 1993 and 2007, were all in Asia and we are here again in Asia in 2013 and I think history favours us to win this trophy,” he said.
“But we are not talking about winning the trophy now, rather we are talking about Iran and Insha Allah (God willingly) we shall win our match against Iran.”
Meanwhile FIFA has appointed referee Heber Roberto Lopes from Brazil as the Centre Referee for the second round tie.
Lopes will be assisted by two of his compatriots Allesandro Rocha and Marcelo Van Grasse, serving as first and second Assistants Referees respectively.
Another official from the South American Confederation (CONMEBOL), Raul Orosco from Bolivia will be the Fourth Official for the encounter.
