Flamingos Head Coach Bankole Olowookere expressed optimism about his team’s chances as they prepare to face Ecuador in their next FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup match in the Dominican Republic. After a strong opening victory over New Zealand, Olowookere emphasised the need to remain focused on each match, saying, Our tournament strategy is to take it one match at a time.
Although Ecuador are a debutant, it should not be underestimated, as demonstrated by its impressive victory over the host nation. Olowookere acknowledged their capability, stating, They may be debutants but not a team to be taken for granted.
The Flamingos, currently leading Group A, have been bolstered by standout performances from players like Shakirat Moshood, Taiwo Adegoke, Faridat Abdulwahab, and captain Taiwo Afolabi, who earned Player of the Match honours against New Zealand. Olowookere noted that the players have recovered well and are prepared for the clash with Ecuador, adding, Three points in that game will all but get us into the knockout stage. It’s an opportunity we won’t let slip away.
Forward Harmony Chidi, who topped the scoring charts during the qualifying rounds with 13 goals, is determined to leave her mark after being tightly marked in the previous match. The match is set for Saturday at 4 PM local time 9 PM Nigeria at CFC Stadium.
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Olowookere’s confidence in his squad signals that the Flamingos are ready to build on their early success and continue their journey in the tournament.
Editorial
As we follow the Flamingos’ journey in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, it’s clear that the team is fully focused and prepared for the challenges ahead. Coach Bankole Olowookere’s approach of taking each match one at a time reflects the measured and disciplined mindset that the team needs to succeed in a tournament of this calibre.
We believe that their performance against New Zealand sets a strong foundation for the team, but the challenge posed by Ecuador should not be overlooked. Ecuador may be new to this level, but their win against the host nation shows that they are capable of causing upsets. The Flamingos will need to remain sharp and continue to execute their strategy effectively.
Olowookere’s confidence in his players is justified, especially with the likes of Taiwo Afolabi and Harmony Chidi leading the charge. Chidi’s hunger to score after being tightly marked in the opening game is something we’re excited to see unfold. It’s these moments, where individual brilliance meets team effort, that define the success of a tournament run.
We eagerly await the upcoming clash and have faith in the Flamingos’ ability to soar past Ecuador and further assert themselves as contenders in the tournament.
Did You Know?
- The Flamingos’ captain, Taiwo Afolabi, earned the Player of the Match award for her performance against New Zealand.
- Ecuador made their debut in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup this year.
- Harmony Chidi was the top scorer during the Flamingos’ qualification campaign, netting 13 goals.
- The Dominican Republic is hosting the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup for the first time.
- The Flamingos have consistently qualified for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup since the tournament’s inception in 2008.
