As Egypt, Nigeria predict tough competition RWANDA’S U-20 team head coach Obradovic Tomislav is positive about the junior wasps’ chances of winning the 16th edition title of the African Youth Championship due in Kigali from January 28-February 1, 2009.
As Egypt, Nigeria predict tough competition
RWANDA’S U-20 team head coach Obradovic Tomislav is positive about the junior wasps’ chances of winning the 16th edition title of the African Youth Championship due in Kigali from January 28-February 1, 2009.
Tomislav who spoke to journalists on Friday after the CAN U-20 draws held at Prime holdings in Kimihurura said that the team is in good shape.
"The team has trained intensively and much as we have gone through a couple of rough training sessions, no team will stand in our way,” Tomislav said.
Tomislav added that the CAN U-20 opener against Mali will be a tough one putting into consideration that a first match is always difficult due to the pressure and big expectations from the home fans.
"Our game against Mali will be a tough one but Iam confident my youngsters will perform,” Tomislav added.
Meanwhile, five-record time winners of the African youth championship, Nigeria, Egypt and South Africa have all predicted a tough competition after being drawn in the same Group (B).
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Chief Administrative Officer Lawrence Katken told Times Sport that the championship will be tough.
"Being drawn alongside Egypt and Ivory Coast makes the group very tough and competitive,” Katken said.
Egypt’s U-20 team manager, Gamal El Akkad said, "We have to double our preparations if we are to lift the title”.
Rwanda also has a tough task after being drawn with Ghana, Cameroon and Mali in Group A.
The top four teams in the championship will qualify for the 2009 Fifa Under-20 World Cup in Egypt.
The winner of the African youth championship will automatically qualify for the finals of the 2009 Youth World Cup due in Cairo, Egypt.
Congo Brazzaville won the last edition which was held on its home soil after overcoming Nigeria 1-0 in the final game.
Group A
Rwanda (Host), Mali, Ghana, Cameroon
Group B
Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa, Ivory Coast
Rwanda’s Fixtures
Rwanda v Mali 18/01/2009
Cameroon v Rwanda 21/01/2009
Rwanda v Ghana 24/01/2009
Ends