Nigeria face Germany in opener

The draw that took place at the International Conference Centre in Abuja today (7 August 2009) has pitted reigning FIFA U-17 world champions and hosts Nigeria against Germany in the opening match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009. The tournament will be played in Abuja, Bauchi, Calabar, Enugu, Ijebu-Ode, Kaduna, Kano and Lagos from 24 October to 15 November 2009.

The draw ceremony also included the unveiling of the official mascot of the tournament. Bobo the eaglet was chosen due to the eagle's intrinsic link with Nigeria. He symbolises the friendliness and strength of the Nigerian people whilst also representing the passion that football arouses in the host country. He eats, sleeps and breathes football and cannot wait to welcome visitors to the FIFA U-17 World Cup.