Nigeria’s U15 Head Coach, Patrick Bassey, has expressed confidence that the country will soon return to its winning ways at the FIFA U17 World Cup, thanks to the newly introduced FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS). Bassey shared his optimism on Saturday after concluding the third phase of TDS training camps in Abuja, where 40 young talents, aged 12 to 14, were scouted nationwide. A final phase is scheduled for December.

Bassey highlighted that the TDS program offers a sustainable alternative to the traditional open tryouts, which often attract over 1,000 hopefuls whenever the U17 camp opens. He believes the scheme will reduce the rate of MRI test failures, as it ensures a streamlined selection of younger players who are more likely to meet eligibility requirements for U17 competitions.

“I want to thank FIFA and NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, for initiating this camp for U15 players,” Bassey said. “With the conclusion of the third phase, I’m confident this program will restore Nigeria’s dominance in the FIFA U17 World Cup, which we last won in 2015.”

He also noted that the program will make it easier for future Golden Eaglets coaches to access a vetted pool of eligible players who meet the age requirements, providing a strong foundation for future success.

Nigeria’s U17 team holds the record for the most FIFA U17 World Cup titles, with five championships and three runner-up finishes. They have also won the Africa U17 Cup of Nations twice, with their most recent continental title in 2007.