I bought toothpaste, gave players money – Siasia on coaching Nigeria U20 team

Former Nigeria international, Samson Siasia, has opened up on coaching the U20 team.

While in charge of the team, Siasia won the African Youth Championship in 2005 and led them to the final of the 2005 U-20 World Cup in The Netherlands.

He also won Olympic silver and bronze medals while in charge of the U-23 team in 2008 and 2016 respectively.

Speaking on the ATHLST podcast, Siasia revealed some of the personal investment he committed to the development and welfare of these players.

Siasia said, “We were in hell I tell you right from Nigeria, trust me.

“The easiest team to coach is the Super Eagles because they will give you everything that you need. But Under 20, even Under 16 is the worst, you don’t see food.

“I spend my own money to make sure these boys are okay.

“I buy them toothpaste, brush or we travel out, give them $100 from my own pocket. Do you think they are there for Nigeria? No, they are playing for me.”