Ibrahim unperturbed by Flying Eagles World Cup group

Flying Eagles playmaker and Kano Pillars star, Alhassan Ibrahim has said he is not worried by the national U-20 team’s group opponents at the forthcoming FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland.

After placing fourth at the just concluded Africa U-20 championship in Niger Republic, the Paul Aigbogun tutored side picked one of the tickets to represent Africa at the junior World Cup.

At the draws conducted last Sunday, the Flying Eagles were pooled in group D along with the USA, Qatar and Ukraine.

In a chat with Daily Trust, Ibrahim who played a central role in Flying Eagles qualification for the World Cup said the team is not afraid of any group opponent.

He said each of the three teams merited their qualification for the world championship and should be given equal respect.

Ibrahim explained that no team that has qualified for any world championship can be a pushover so Flying Eagles will pay equal attention to all the group opponents.

“Yes, I have seen the group and I want to say that we are not disturbed. There is nothing to worry about.

“It is a good group and we shall do our best to get out of it to the knock out stage. I don’t think there is any weak side at this level.

“If you are not good, you won’t qualify to represent your continent. This is why all the teams deserve equal attention,” he said.

The midfield maestro also said the Flying Eagles will use the world championship to atone for their failure in Niger Republic.

He therefore pleaded with Nigerians to continue to support the team as they prepare for the world championship.

“We have since put behind us the U-20 AFCON where we failed to lift the trophy. I know Nigerians felt disappointed but we shall make up for that loss in Poland.

“All we need is their prayers. If they keep praying for us, we shall do them proud at the world stage,” he assured.