Six Nigeria U17 Golden Eaglets players reportedly fail MRI scan

Those who failed the test include a goalkeeper, three defenders and two strikers

Reports indicate that at least six of the members of the Nigeria male Under 17 side, the Golden Eaglets, have failed an MRI scan conducted by Nigerian authorities.

A top official of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, told PREMIUM TIMES exclusively that six players failed the MRI test which was conducted in Abuja on Sunday; while seven others are on the waiting list, with their fate yet to be determined.

The six who failed the scan are a goalkeeper, two defenders and three strikers, the source said. Further tests are expected to be conducted on Monday.

The test is being conducted by Nigerian authorities to verify the age of the boys before they travel for the FIFA Under 17 competition taking place in the UAE in October; and to avoid the embarrassment witnessed before the African championship when some Nigerian players were sent home after a MRI scan revealed they were older than 17.

Nigeria lost 0 – 1 to Cote d’Ivoire in the final of the African championship held in Marakesh, Morocco.

The NFF is yet to release the official results of Saturday’s scan while its spokesperson, Ademola Olajire, did not answer or return calls to his phone.