Nigeria’s Flamingos Target Another Win Against Mexico in Morocco

Nigeria’s U17 girls, known as the Flamingos, are set to compete in the Round of 16 stage of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. They are battling to advance to the quarter-finals, where their journey would culminate. The forthcoming match against Mexico is scheduled to commence at 3pm Morocco time, which translates to 4pm in Nigeria.

This game echoes a previous encounter during the 2014 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals, held at the Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica in San José. The Flamingos emerged triumphant in that match, defeating Mexico 3-0. Scorer credits are attributed to Rasheedat Ajibade, Uchenna Kanu, and Aminat Yakubu. These three players have since integrated into the senior team, the Super Falcons.

In a recent team meeting, Head Coach Hakeem Busari emphasized the need for the players to shift focus from their previous victories against Puerto Rico and Korea DPR, urging them to prepare for the demanding knockout stage football. Busari will be capable of choosing from his squad of 21 players. However, in-form goalkeeper Jane Ijirigho and defenders Azeezat Oduntan, Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen, and Kanyinsola Rodiat Yusuf are set to make their debut.

Midfielders Favour Nkwocha, Tosin Rafiu, and Mary Dunstan, who participated in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland, might also see action. Forward options include Oluebube Umejiaku and Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, who have each netted two goals in the competition. Captain Harmony Chidi, who was absent from the team’s last match against the world champions, is also a potential starter.

Nigeria Football Federation’s Acting General Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, visited the Flamingos during their training session in Rabat. He encouraged the team to move past their victory over Korea DPR and concentrate on the upcoming challenge. Ikpeme reiterated the importance of maintaining focus and determination as they advance in their World Cup campaign.