In a call put through to players and officials, he congratulated the boys for being brave warriors to overcome the Mali hurdle, the Youth and Sports minister said no game is easy and the fact that they could withstand the pressure from the Malians goes to show that they possess the true fighting spirit of Nigerians."Let me assure you all that your efforts will not go unnoticed; all I ask of you is to relax, enjoy this moment, then concentrate on your next game, no game is easy, but from the much you have shown against Mali, I know you guys can make it."
Dalong had before the game put a call across to the team, charging them not to let the nation proud.
Responding Coach Siasia thanked the Youth and Sports Minister for finding time within his busy schedule to give the team a morale -boosting call, while assuring the Minister that the team would not disappoint Nigerians. Siasia called on all to support the team, saying that they have come this far and cannot afford to falter. A brace from Junior Ajayi and strike from Mohammed Usman ensured the Dream Team beat their Malian foe 3-2 on Sunday.
