The Two Surprise Selections in the Nigeria's Golden Eaglets' Squad - Algeria 2023 U-17 AFCON

By Emmanuel Oladele - The current settings in the Nigeria U17 Golden Eaglets is difficult to believe, players were selected base on merit and hardwork, unlike days when bribery and corruption were prevalent.

It will amaze many to read about the two uninvited players that made the final 26-man squad of the Nigeria U-17 Golden Eaglets Team. Temiloluwa Adeyimika Adelakin and Gift Ukeh Adie both Goalkeepers, were uninvited to the team's training camp in Abuja, but came into the camp to try their luck, as they were not on the official list of invited players, but were surprisingly selected on merit because of their hard work and determination.

The Golden Eaglets Media Officer Francis Achi confirmed the update in a post which reads as follows; "Temi and Gift only came to try their luck when the camp opened in January as they were not on the official list of players invited, but their hardwork has been rewarded."

Both Goalkeepers are currently with the Nigeria U-17 Golden Eaglets in Constantine, Algeria, where the team will be playing their opening game against Baby Chipolopolo of Zambia on Sunday.

From the Left, Temi, Richard and Gift

Many Nigerians have expressed their satisfaction on the quality and age of the players selected. It's glaring that all players were selected on merit, and majority of the players selected are still in Colleges (Senior Secondary Schools). This is the first time in history that Nigeria would be featuring a very young and talented side for a U-17 Tournament. Great courage from Nduka Ugbade led crew.