Former Nigeria international, Dimeji Lawal, has expressed optimism that the Flying Eagles will still make it from their group at the ongoing Africa Youth Championship taking place in Algeria.
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On Sunday, the coach John Obuh-led side lost to the junior Eagles of Mali 1-0 in their opening group B game while in the other game in group B, both DR Congo and Gabon played out a 0-0 draw.
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"It's unfortunate that the Flying Eagles lost their first game against Mali. And like I used to say, all eyes will be on all of our national teams- especially now that we are the African champions," he began.
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"But that notwithstanding, I am confident that the Flying Eagles will still qualify from their group. All they need to do is double their effort, correct all the mistakes that need to be corrected and once this is done, I don't see them crashing out in the first round.
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They are a good side and they will do well in their next game," Lawal said.
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The 1989 FIFA U-20 World Cup silver medal winner cited nervousness in front of goal as the main reason why the team lost to Mali.
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"I think the players were so nervous. They were always in a hurry which I believe affected their final deliveries. They should relax and study their opponent before making their moves because it was as if the Malians always knew what they will do the next minute. I hope the coach will work on those loopholes ahead of their next game."
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In the opening games of the tournament, host Algeria were held to a goalless draw by Benin Republic while Egypt defeated Ghana 2-1.
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The Eagles next game is against Gabon on Wednesday while Mali will square up against DR Congo.
Dimeji Lawal shouldn't be so sure. They are in a very tight corner right now and it would be very difficult for them to get out. Sholasholaz is praying for them