'It Was Not Easy When We Played Them 1989' - Ex-Flying Eagles Star Who Scored Winning Goal Vs USA

Published: May 27, 2019

Former Nigeria international Mutiu Adepoju has a word of caution for Nigeria's U-20 national team, Flying Eagles as they play against USA in their second match of the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup on Monday evening.

Adepoju who was one of Nigeria's star players at the Saudi '89 FIFA U-20 World Youth Championship spoke with allnigeriasoccer.com on his thoughts about Nigeria's campaign in Poland.

"It's definitely good to start a tournament by winning but it wont be easy at all against USA on Monday so the Flying Eagles should not relent," Adepoju said.

"They had three points against Qatar but they need to win on Monday because its not going to be an easy game.

''The Flying Eagles should not underrate their opponents. Believing in one's abilities is alright but I hope the boys don't get over confident," the 'headmaster' admonished.

Reminiscing on his brace against USA in the semifinals of the U-20 World Youth Championship in Saudi Arabia 30 years ago, Adepoju stated the Yankees have special talents despite 'soccer' not being the number one sport in the States.

"USA usually have very disciplined and committed players. They may not be the best in the world but from generation to generation they always seem to produce great talents.

"It was not easy when we played them in the semifinals in 1989. We dragged them to the extra time," the onetime Racing Santander midfielder concluded.

The Nigeria versus USA game kicks off at 7.30pm Nigerian time on Monday.

Izuchukwu Okosi

Photo Credit : fifa.com