Head coach Manu Garba has praised his Golden Eaglets for their fighting spirit and mental strength after Nigeria defeated Burkina Faso 2–0 to clinch the bronze medal at the 2025 WAFU-B U17 Cup in Côte d’Ivoire.
The young Nigerian side bounced back from their semi-final defeat to Ghana’s Black Starlets with a composed and disciplined performance at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium.
Goals in each half sealed a deserved victory and ensured the team finished the regional championship on a high note.
Speaking after the match, Garba expressed pride in his players’ response to adversity and commended their attitude throughout the tournament.
“We wanted to finish strong, and the players showed the right mentality,” the coach said. “This result is good for their confidence as they continue to grow and develop.”
Garba emphasized that the bronze medal was more than just consolation. it was a statement of character and a reminder of Nigeria’s enduring strength in youth football.
He noted that the experience gained at the competition would serve as a solid foundation for the players’ future at both club and national levels.
While the Golden Eaglets missed out on qualification for the Africa U17 Cup of Nations, Garba believes the campaign provided valuable lessons that will shape the next generation of Nigerian footballers.
“The boys gave their all, and I’m proud of how they represented the country,” he added.
The victory over Burkina Faso capped a spirited display by the Eaglets and reaffirmed Manu Garba’s continued influence in nurturing Nigeria’s next wave of football talent.
