SCORENigeria looks at five players who look set to shine at the U17 AFCON qualifying tournament, which kicks off on Tuesday in Lome, Togo.
The Eaglets begin their campaign Wednesday afternoon against Cote d’Ivoire.
5.Chukwuemeka Egbu Midfielder/Riverlane
He is a left-footed and versatile player, who could play as central defender, leftback or even in defensive midfield for the notable Enugu academy Riverlane. He may be lacking in inches but still does a solid job in the heart of the defence, but he is most likely to be played in defensive midfield in Togo.
4.Kolawole John Midfielder/Active Soccer Academy
He is an intelligent midfielder who reads play very well and picks the perfect final pass. He makes the midfield tick with his excellent positioning and often arrives late in the opposing box to finish. He only needs to be more clinical in front of goal.
3.Samuel Akere Midfielder/G12 Academy
He is a smallish, left-footed attacking midfielder, who twists and turns like David Silva of Manchester City. He has great vision to pick key attacking runs with his passes. He puts away his chances in front of goal.
2.Christian Nwachukwu Winger/Elite Football Academy
He plays either as a winger or as the second striker. He has great drive, a good dribbler and super in 1v1. He has scored four goals and provided three assists in the five test games he has played for the Golden Eaglets.
1.Joseph Arumala Striker/IB Sporting Dreams
He is the star of the team heading to Togo. He is a centre-forward, but he could also play on the wings thanks to his incredible technique. He has scored five goals in as many test games leading up to the tournament in Togo. He is also the team’s penalty taker.