Nigeria’s Under-23 team head coach Samson Siasia has said the Flying Eagles did not play to win against the European champions, Germany.

Nigeria lost 0-1 to Germany in the round of 16 clash yesterday in Christchurch at the ongoing FIFA Under-20 World Cup in New Zealand.

Midfielder, Levin Oztunali’s 19th minute goal proved decisive to hand the Germans a quarterfinal ticket at the biennial football showpiece.

Siasia said the game plan the African champions played against Germany could not have guaranteed them victory in the clash.

“Flying Eagles did not come out to play at winning the clash against Germany. They were not aggressive to take their chance at goal.

“Germany could have won the match with more than four goals if they had pressed for it.

“It’s absolutely wrong to play one striker, Taiwo Awoniyi without any support striker in a knockout encounter.

“Germany played far better in the clash and ably deserved their hard earned victory.

“Awoniyi stood out in the game but was not used very well against Germany and I believe he remains a revelation.

“I don’t think the players are right to cry after the encounter as they did not do anything to deserve a win,” said the former Super Eagles manager.

The African champions have therefore ended their campaign at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in New Zealand with the loss to Germany.

•Adapted from Vanguard. Photo shows Siasia.