Former Flying Eagles captains Lukman Haruna and Ramon Azeez believe Ladan Bosso’s team is capable of causing an upset when they take on hosts, Argentina, in Wednesday’s round of 16 clash, but warned that the tie would be tough, The PUNCH reports.
The Nigerians finished third in Group D after losing 2-0 to Brazil in their final Group D game and the duo, who featured at the 2009 and 2011 U-20 World Cup respectively, said the Flying Eagles must be fully prepared heading into the tie billed for the San Juan Stadium.
The young Albiceleste have been outstanding at the tournament, scoring a total of 10 goals and recording maximum points to top their group, after thrashing New Zealand 5-0 in their final fixture.
They had earlier defeated Uzbekistan 2-1 and Guatemala 3-0 respectively
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s clash, former Almeria midfielder Azeez said, “They showed Brazil too much respect at the start of their game against Brazil, which cost them the game. Against Argentina, it will be very tough because they have good players who are very experienced.
“They have a good midfield that can trouble us if we allow them to play. I believe that we can win if they come out with a plan to stop the likes of Maximo Perrone, Valentin Carboni and Federico Redondo. We stand a good chance of reaching the quarter-finals
Haruna said Bosso’s side must be aggressive and clinical like they were against the Italians to stand a chance against the Argentines.
They (Argentina) have two of the tournament’s most exciting young midfielders in Perrone and Carboni and are expected to go far because they are the hosts, but tactically, if we are aggressive and we take our chances we can beat them. I know Bosso very well, he will come out with a plan to win, but it will be tough.”
Meanwhile, Argentina coach, Javier Mascherano, says his team will prepare well for the Flying Eagles.
“We know the opponents now and we will calmly prepare for Wednesday’s match,” Mascherano told Mundo Albiceleste.
“We already did what we had to do, win the three matches. The important thing is to rest and relax a bit.”
