Reigan Heskey stepped up for England when they needed him most in their crunch final FIFA U-17 World Cup™ group game against Egypt, scoring a brilliant brace to fire them into the knockout phase.
The dynamic forward has been a key figure in the Three Lions’ revival after losing their opening match against Venezuela – and showcased his wide range of attributes in netting his double. He utilised his explosive ball-striking ability to lash the Three Lions’ ahead in the first half, before displaying searing pace and impressive composure to race clear and slot home his second of the game.
The Manchester City player is the son of former England striker Emile Heskey, who won 61 senior international caps.
England coach Neil Ryan paid tribute to the 17-year-old’s quality and character.
“He’s highly talented,” Ryan said. “He’s a real physical specimen with a great eye for goal. He can create and score. He’s a real threat. He’s got a very good mentality, too. He’s never too high or too low. He’s focused and we’ve been waiting for those types of performances from Reigan. He’s delivered. I thought he was excellent tonight, as were a number of players. I’m really pleased for Reigan.”
Heskey was denied a hat-trick by a fine second-half penalty save from Egypt goalkeeper Omar Abdelaziz. His brace, however, moved him on to three goals for the tournament, having also netted in England’s 8-1 trouncing of Haiti.
Heskey revealed he is savouring the unique atmosphere at the U-17 World Cup.
“I’m so happy to get the goals and the points,” he said. “It’s a different experience here, it’s great being able to watch all the teams (on the other pitches). You can really hear the fans, especially when you get that big roar!”
He added: “After the first game, we’ve managed to rebuild and get the results we want in the last two. We’re very confident.”
It is a sentiment supported by full-back Bendito Mantato.
“I think we have the potential to go all the way,” said the Manchester United man. “We’ve shown a lot of personality. After getting a setback against Venezuela, we were able to pick ourselves up, win back-to-back games and finish as strong as possible.”
Mantato and Heskey, of course, are accustomed to facing off in cross-city derbies. The defender is enjoying his international link-up with the
“It’s better when he’s on my team!” said Mantato. “When you’re having to defend, but you know you’ve got someone up top who can put balls in the back of the net, it definitely helps.”
