Team Information
U-16 Nigeria National Team
FIFA Ranking: 42nd
Appearances in major tournaments:
FIFA World Cup - 6
FIFA U-20 World Cup - 12
FIFA U-17 World Cup - 11
Alongside the Gulf of Guinea, located in the western side of Africa, many of the African powerhouses, such as Cameroon and Ghana, are neighbouring in the area. Nigeria is one of them, as they are second only to Cameroon with the most appearance at the FIFA World Cup by an African country. Nigeria leads the way with the most titles won at the FIFA U-17 World Cup, as they have won five championships, while finishing as the runners-up three times. Their second title came in 1993 where the tournament (at the time known as the FIFA Under-17 World Championship) was hosted by Japan. The talented Nigerian youth players will thrive in Japan, where their predecessors have achieved greatness that has led to the development of their country’s football.
Comment from Coach Haruna USMAN of U-16 Nigeria National Team
Over the years, Japan and Nigeria have built a very friendly relationship, and for us, playing in Japan is like playing at home. Our success at the 1993 FIFA Under-17 World Championship held in Japan, gave us a turning point for the youth development of our country. We are looking forward for this tournament and hope to utilise this opportunity to achieve greatness at the 2022 World Cup.
