Ezema Confirmed as Golden Eaglets Assistant Coach

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Gabriel Ezema, Solution FC’s head coach in the Nigeria National League (NNL), has confirmed his appointment as assistant coach of the Golden Eaglets, Nigeria’s U-17 national team.
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"Yes, that’s true. You’re right and I thank God for everything," said the tactician in response to enquiry from the media.
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He took charge of Solution FC last term, guiding the club to a near top-two finish in their Southern Conference A campaign. Ezema’s coaching experience also includes managing Sporting FC Lagos and a brief stint with Kano Pillars. He will work under head coach Manu Garba in preparing the Golden Eaglets for the 2026 CAF U-17 AFCON qualifiers, with the target of reaching the Qatar 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup finals.
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Editorial

We regard Gabriel Ezema’s elevation as assistant coach of the Golden Eaglets as a strategic and inspiring appointment. His journey from managing NNL sides to joining the national youth team setup illustrates the power of progression rooted in and local expertise.
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Ezema’s success in nearly leading Solution FC to the top of their conference showcases his tactical acumen. His experience across various Nigerian clubs stands him in good stead to support Manu Garba and the Golden Eaglets as they prepare for the rigorous CAF U-17 AFCON qualifiers ahead.

This appointment also serves as a powerful message to coaches across the country merit and results at grassroots levels—when aligned with opportunity—can indeed propel careers forward. We are confident that Ezema’s involvement will strengthen the team’s pathway to Qatar 2026, and help cement Nigeria’s status as a cradle of youthful football excellence.
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Did You Know?

Gabriel Ezema previously led Sporting FC Lagos and briefly served as coach at Kano Pillars before joining Solution FC. Solution FC came close to topping their Southern Conference A in the NNL under Ezema’s leadership. The Golden Eaglets have never missed a FIFA U-17 World Cup since their debut in 1985. Manu Garba, the Golden Eaglets’ head coach, famously guided Nigeria to the U-17 World Cup title in 2015. The CAF U-17 AFCON qualifiers provide crucial preparation for the global stage and serve as one of Nigeria’s main routes to World Cup qualification.
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