Coach of Ghana’s U-17 team, Samuel Paa Kwesi Fabin, has asked for calm ahead of the Starlets Round of 16 tie against the Menas of Niger at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai, India today.
The Starlets have been impressive so far, winning two and losing one of their three group matches and the experienced gaffer is confident his side will bring honour and glory to Ghana.
Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the Starlets game against Niger today, Coach Fabin highlighted the importance of topping the group and also re-affirmed his desire to win Ghana its third World trophy.
“Beating India was a nice experience for us because when you go to a tournament you top your group it gives you a great feeling and I believe it will give us the needed impetus in our subsequent games. Expectations are high in Ghana and its normal because Ghanaians love their football. We know Ghanaians want us to win the trophy and we are working towards taking the cup to Ghana.”
On the game against Niger, Coach Fabin expressed that his ‘boys’ have prepared seriously for the game and assured Ghanaians of victory.
“We are prepared for the game. Every team here is a tough opponent so we are ready to face them. I have watched some of their matches and they have improved tremendously so I’m expecting a tough game but I know we will qualify.
“The reception in Mumbai was good, it was overwhelming because by the time we got here the people were here waiting for us,” Fabin told the press.
“Niger are a very determined side and looking at the matches they played in the group stage, it was an improved game as compared to their performance in the AFCON U-17 in Gabon.”
“It won’t be an easy game on Wednesday at all for both sides but we have prepared well to advance to the next stage. We are ready for the battle, we have prepared the boys psychologically and moreover, this is a knock-out stage so we are approaching the game with a winning mentality.
“In an association football anything at all can happen but I believe we will beat Niger on Wednesday. In Gabon, we wasted chances against them before winning on penalties but I hope we will win in regulation time this time. Nobody should underestimate the Nigeriens, it will be a difficult game but hopefully, we shall win.”
Ghana has won the FIFA under-17 World Cup twice in 1991 and 1995.
Today Sports
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