A small team made a big mark in a tournament expected to be dominated by the “giants.”
The NMI U17 Boys National Team playing in the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2023 Qualifiers earned the respect of soccer fans who either personally watched the games in Shepparton, Australia or in online platforms despite allowing goals in twin digits to tournament favorite China and pro players-backed Australia.
The NMI players first faced the host last Wednesday and lost, 0-23. Nestory Irankunda, a pro playing for Adelaide United, scored five goals, while Mitchell John Glasson, also a pro suiting up for Sydney FC, added four goals. After the lopsided loss to the Joeys, there are people who questioned the NMI’s presence in the high-level Asian Football Confederation competition. .....
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