Reading the various postings on the Golden Eaglets brought back sweet memories. The same can be said of the Flying Eagles. Whenever any of these teams were playing, you can be sure that the streets are deserted. This may not be the most detailed historical analysis from 1985 to 2013, but a peep. I expect a myriad of detailed analysis from those who have more information.

1985 SET

The most memorable name that comes to mind was Monday Odiaka. He won the golden boot scoring five goals. The team coached by Paul Hamilton went on to win the Bronze Medal at the tournament, that was held in Portugal. Other member of the team were Kingsly Onye,Chris Anigala, Andrew Uwe, Osaro Obobaifo etc. Please, do not crucify me if I get some of the names wrong. As a little boy, I kept a copy of Newswatch Magazine that had the lead story of the victorious team for years- so sad, i can not lay my hands on it again.

1987 Set- Chile 87

Propelled by the success of the under 17 two years earlier in China and the manner they won the qualifying matches, a lot was expected of the 1987 set. The team had a lot of budding talents. A host of the players were already playing for Division One clubs in the league. Most remarkable was Etim 10 Esin. Other notable players included William Okpara who went on to play for the Green Eagles and Orlando Pirates of SA. Peter Nieketien, Ladi Babalola, Waidi Akani, etc. The team lost two of its group matches and drew one, crashing out despite the high hopes

1989 Saudi Arabia Set
Coached by Tunde Disu, the 89 set remains one of the most memorable sets of Flying Eagles. The team went on to loose to Portugal in the finals after defeating two superpowers en route the finals-US and the USSR. The Damman Miracle will always remain evergreen in our minds- coming from four goals down in the second half to winning the game at the end of ninety minutes. Great stars emerged from the tournament. Jimoh Tyson Balogun, Chris Ohehen, Mike Oyemachara, angus ikeji, Emeka Amadi, Nduka Ugbade, Philip Ososndu, Christopher Nwosu, Chinedu odiare, mutiu adepoju, bawa abdulahi, oladimeji lawal, sam elijah, peter ogaba, Alloy Agu.

tbc