In the background, Brazilians alds rejoice, Nigerians sulk. FIFA photo

Some ex-internationals have expressed confidence in the chances of the Flying Eagles excelling in the ongoing U-20 World Cup in New Zealand in spite of their 2-4 loss to Brazil.

Nigeria lost to the four times world champions in their opening match in the group E encounter that has North Korea and Hungary.

The ex-internationals spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interviews in Lagos on Monday, stressing that the team would perform better in consequent matches.

Joe Erico, former Super Eagles Assistant coach, said that he believed the team would bounce back to shape and play better through the group stages.

“The boys played a good game, although it was a bit rough with few mistakes made, but I see them going far in the competition.

“They have what it takes to make more progress into the next stages of the competition and with more games they play, the better they would increase their game.

“We have a good team and we hope the handlers make good use of them,” he said.

Henry Nwosu said that the players gave a good fight but lost to a better team, adding that the team needed to be more solid in the defence.

“They did well against Brazil, and I thought they were going to take the game when they were up, 2-1, I was surprised when they allowed Brazil turn the result to their favour.

“However there is still room for improvement in subsequent games ahead, their handlers must ensure the players are firm at the defence,” Nwosu said.

Former Coach Tunde Disu said that the team would improve as the games progresses.

“It is too early to judge them right now, they played a very good side and should not be judged by that performance.

“However, they need to approach their next match against North Korea with great caution and determination to win, because it is crucial to their progressing,” Dish said.

Collins Nnadozie, a football fan, expressed sadness that he could not watch the match which came up at 2.00 am, but expressed optimism that the team would do well despite their loss.

“We lost to a strong team in world football, we can still raise our heads for a good fight in the match, however caution needs to be taken when they play their other group matches,” Nnadozie said.

NAN reports that Nigeria will need to beat North Korea in their next match on June 4, following the Asian’s 5-1 demolition of Hungary in their opening match.