Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – The U17 AFCON fixture between Nduka Ugbade’s Eaglets and their North African foes is set to take place on Friday. Nigeria will be hoping to build on their opening day victory over Tanzania when they take on Morocco.
Team News
Both teams are expected to field their strongest possible starting XI. Nigeria’s coach, Nduka Ugbade, will be happy to have a full squad at his disposal. His Moroccan counterpart, Hassan Benabicha, will also be confident of his team’s chances as they look to get their campaign off to a winning start.
Head-to-Head
Nigeria and Morocco have faced each other on several occasions in the past. The two teams are evenly matched, with Nigeria winning two and Morocco winning three of their last five encounters. However, Nigeria has fared better in recent times, having won both their games against Morocco in the last decade.
Lineups
Nigeria is expected to play a 4-3-3 formation, with Divine Nwachukwu leading the line. The midfield trio of Ahmed Abdullahi, Simon Omoniyi, and Nasiru Koko will be tasked with providing service to the forward line. The Eaglets’ defence will be anchored by Abdulazeez Shuaibu and Khalid Yahaya.
Morocco, on the other hand, will play a 4-4-2 formation, with Youssef Hindi and Mohamed El Amine leading the attack. The midfield will be marshaled by Mohamed Boukemacha and Mohamed Bouattour. The Moroccan defence will be spearheaded by captain Omar Karim.
Predictions
This promises to be an exciting encounter between two evenly matched sides. Nigeria will be the favorites, having won their opening game comfortably, but Morocco will be no pushovers. The Eaglets will have to be at their best to secure all three points.
Experts predict a close encounter, with both teams expected to score. However, Nigeria’s attacking prowess and solid defence should see them edge out their North African opponents. The final scoreline is likely to be Nigeria 2-1 Morocco.
In conclusion
Friday’s U17 AFCON fixture between Nigeria and Morocco promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams expected to go all out for the win. Nigeria will be the favorites, but Morocco will be no pushovers. It remains to be seen who comes out on top in what is sure to be a thrilling encounter.
