U-17: FIFA confirms Nigeria decision

  1. Posted on Sunday 26 October 2008 - 12:40
    Dolphyne
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    Joseph Appiah-Dolphyne, AfricaNews editor in Accra, Ghana
    The host of the 2009 U-17 World Cup is unclear after FIFA confirmed Nigeria wants to pull out of hosting the event. The world body must now decide whether to help finance or look elsewhere. Executive Committee Member Chuck Blazer said Sepp Blatter is committed to holding the youth World Cup in Africa.
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    "I think he (Blatter) is going to continue to work to see whether they can find an appropriate alternative there first," Blazer said. Fifa said in a statement that Nigeria "is no longer in a position to provide its support for the organization of the tournament."

    The Nigerian government and football officials were at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich during the week to explain their situation.

    Nigeria President Umaru Yar'Adua had already said that funding the $30 million budget was not a priority.

    Six cities are in line to stage matches but all need work to upgrade stadiums and infrastructure.

    Despite Nigeria's reluctance in hosting the event, Blazer, who represents the Concacaf region, said Mexico is ready if needed.

    "They have offered themselves and we are very proud of the fact," Blazer said.
    "They have a very good and ready infrastructure." Mexico is scheduled to host the 24-team tournament in 2011.

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