President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday in Abuja enjoined the Golden Eaglets to bring the World Cup back as perfect end-of-the-year gift for soccer loving Nigerians.

The president extended his best wishes for a triumphant outing to the Eaglets and their officials in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu.

The Golden Eaglets are currently in Chile to participate in this year’s under-17 FIFA World Cup Tournament.

President Buhari urged the Eaglets to do their utmost best to match the outstanding performance of their victorious predecessors, who won the competition four times, including the inaugural edition in 1985 and the last tournament in 2013.

He assured the Eaglets and their handlers of the full support of the Federal Government and all Nigerians as they strive to bring more sporting glory to their fatherland by outplaying all their opponents in Chile and winning the Under-17 World Cup for a record fifth time.

The President said he would follow the team’s progress throughout the tournament in Chile with keen interest and high expectation.

“It is our belief that you have the skills, dedication and determination required to make Nigeria world champions at the youth level once again.”

He called on the players to stay focused, avoid all distractions and put their globally acknowledged skills, ability and doggedness on display against the USA on Saturday; Chile on October 20, Croatia on October 23 and in all their subsequent matches to win the tournament.

He, therefore, urged the Eaglets to give millions of soccer-loving Nigerians the perfect end-of-the-year gift by winning the tournament. (NAN)

•Photo shows Golden Eaglets skipper Kelechi Nwakali.

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