5th May, 2011
Despite being wracked by fatigue and jet lag, the National U-20 men’s team, Flying Eagles maintained their winning streak by defeating host Korea Republic 1-0 in the opening game of the Suwon U-20 Invitational Tournament this evening.
The tournament in Korea Republic’s second city is being attended by four countries that have qualified for the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup to be staged in Colombia between 29 July – 20 August.
Defender Gbenga Arokoyo scored from a corner kick in the 76th minute of a highly competitive game inside the Suwon World Cup Stadium, and the hosts could not find a way round the brilliant goalkeeper Danjuma Paul. Also today, New Zealand lost 0-1 to Uruguay in the other match.
Korea Republic will play in Group A of the FIFA U-20 World Cup alongside hosts Colombia, France and Mali. Uruguay, who trade tackle with the new African champions on Sunday at the same venue, will play in Group B of the tournament alongside Portugal, Cameroon and New Zealand, who make up the number in Suwon.
New Zealand, who ensured qualification for Colombia two days after the Draw were held in Cartagena, will be the last to face the firepower of the Flying Eagles next Tuesday.
The Flying Eagles overcame several hurdles to lift their sixth African title in South Africa, including having to prosecute the tournament with 18 players after two were dropped for technical reasons and Holland-based Ahmed Musa could only play the opening match against Ghana.
After arriving in Lagos from South Africa on Monday afternoon, the team had to travel to Korea aboard Emirates Airline the following day, with even three players less. Striker Stanley Okoro had to head to Spain to join his club, Almeria, as defender Terna Suswam who was on the plane to Portugal to return to Vitoria Setubal.
Defender Chima Oluocha, who lost his father on the day of the final match against Cameroon in Johannesburg was released to go for the burial rites.