The Golden Eaglets secured the bronze medal in the men’s football event at the 2024 National Sports Festival after defeating Team Kaduna 2–0 in the third place playoff.
Abdulmuiz Adeleke opened the scoring for the Eaglets, setting the tone for a confident performance. Their second goal came courtesy of an own goal by the opponents, sealing the victory for the national U17 side.
Despite showing resilience, Team Kaduna struggled to respond, unable to find a breakthrough against the Eaglets’ disciplined backline.
In the women’s third-place match, hosts Team Ogun overcame Team Osun 2–0, thanks to goals from Damilola Adeyanju and Itunuoluwa Odeyiola.
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Later today, Team Ogun will take on Team Kwara in the men’s football final, while the Flamingos are set to face Team Delta in the women’s grand finale.
Editorial
Bronze might not be the colour of glory the Golden Eaglets hoped for when they arrived at the National Sports Festival but in sport, pride is often found in how a team responds to disappointment. And the Eaglets responded with purpose.
Their 2–0 win over Team Kaduna was more than just a consolation prize it was a display of maturity, discipline, and resilience. After the sting of missing out on the final, they regrouped, refocused, and delivered a composed performance to end their campaign with heads held high.
These are the matches that define character. It’s easy to fall apart after a semi-final defeat, especially for young players still navigating the mental side of elite sport. But the Eaglets’ ability to bounce back speaks volumes about their coaching, leadership, and hunger.
More importantly, their bronze medal win reinforces the importance of integrating national youth sides into domestic tournaments like the National Sports Festival. The exposure is invaluable. Playing against older, state based teams sharpens both skill and mentality. It’s not just about winning—it’s about preparing them for bigger stages to come.
For the Eaglets, this is a bronze to be proud of. Because in their response, they showed they’re made of something golden.
Did You Know?
- Abdulmuiz Adeleke, who scored the opener, was part of Nigeria’s last U17 AFCON qualifying squad.
- The Golden Eaglets have won the FIFA U17 World Cup a record five times—the most by any nation.
- The National Sports Festival was first held in 1973 and was introduced to promote national unity after the civil war.
- Nigeria’s senior national team, the Super Eagles, has regularly recruited standout players from youth tournaments like the NSF.
- The 2024 edition of the National Sports Festival is hosted in Abeokuta, Ogun State, marking the state’s first time as sole host of the event.
