The coach of the U17 team of Nigeria Nduka Ugabde has explained the reason behind his team 0-1 defeat at the hand of Morocco at the ongoing U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Algeria.
An own goal in the 2nd minute of play handed Morocco all three points in a game largely dominated by the Nigerian side. Who were also made to pay for their wastefulness with Morocco picking all three points with a disciplined performance at the back.
Explaining the defeat, Ugbade blamed it on their wayward finish saying his boys did everything expected of them bar the finishing that cost them all three points and handed Morocco a spot in the next round of the tournament.
“Everything worked absolutely well. We controlled the game but tactically Morocco controlled the outcome. We had some few mistakes as well but we created so many chances, and the only problem is that we couldn’t score,” the former World Cup winner with Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets said.
He added; “it does happen in football. It is not a strange thing, but it is important to correct and ensure we are more efficient infront of goal.”
Despite the defeat, he said he is optimistic that Nigeria will still make it to the next round of the tournament with their final group game against South Africa now a make or mar encounter.
“We must be more efficient with the chances we have. We will try to look for some different ways tactically to impact the outcome of the game. We have a chance, but also, that chance can fade away. We have to work hard,” the coach noted.
Mohammed Mowiz
