We are focused on retaining the trophy, says Amuneke

Golden Eaglets’ Coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, has assured Nigerians that the 3-0 defeat of Brazil in the quarterfinal of the on-going FIFA U-17 World Cup will not in any way affect the team’s concentration as they prepare for today’s semifinal against Mexico.

Nigeria is fighting to retain the title it won two years ago in the UAE, but some analysts have cautioned the team against thinking the deal is already done after the victory over Brazil.

They accused the team of losing their focus after scoring three goals in the first half of the encounter and advised Amuneke to ensure his boys took every minute of the remaining matches very serious.

But Amuneke avers that the team will not give room for complacency at this crucial point in the competition.

“It was not like we scored three goals and that was it. Before that our side had 15 very good minutes, when they moved the ball around as we knew they could.

“You have to give credit to my kids, who were tranquil and kept their cool to deal with the Brazil pressure and then scored at the right time.
“For them to beat Brazil is a big confidence boost. We still have a long way to the title, though,” he told FIFA.Com.