With a strong lead already secured, Nigeria’s U17 girls are fired up for Friday’s decisive clash in Algeria. The Flamingos are chasing their eighth FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup appearance.
Although the chilly winds of Blida pose a different challenge, the Flamingos remain confident and focused. The final qualifier holds at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker, kicking off at 8pm.
After dominating the first leg 4-0 in Ikenne, the Flamingos carry a clear advantage into this reverse fixture. However, their ambition stretches beyond protecting a lead.
Encouraged by previous success and a shot at global recognition, the team is mentally and tactically prepared. Their morale has also been boosted financially.
Following the first leg, billionaire Kunle Soname and the NFF rewarded the girls with a combined N6million. This gesture sparked even greater hunger in the squad.
Moreover, both Soname and NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau have promised identical incentives for a repeat performance in Blida. This has further lifted the team’s spirits.
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“Our objective is clear – to win the FIFA World Cup ticket. That is the big motivation,” said head coach Bankole Olowookere. “Yet, we have been further incentivized by the monetary rewards. My girls will go all out on Friday night.”
The experienced Olowookere is likely to field the same attacking trio from the first leg. Queen Joseph, who bagged two goals, is expected to start alongside Zainab Raji and Kaosarat Olanrewaju.
In midfield, Shakirat Moshood, Muinat Rotimi, and Philomena Isaiah are poised to control play and feed the forwards. Their role could prove crucial again.
Captain and goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma will likely marshal the defense with Azeezat Oduntan, Hannah Ibrahim, Christiana Sunday, and Jumai Adebayo forming a familiar backline.
While confidence runs high, the Flamingos must stay disciplined against an Algerian side looking to salvage pride. Home advantage and weather could be factors.
Yet, with momentum, belief, and rewards on their side, Nigeria’s girls look set to complete the job. Victory would seal their World Cup spot in Morocco.
CAF has appointed Cameroonian referee Marie Noelle Etong to officiate the game, with support from her compatriots and officials from Chad, Mauritania, and Zimbabwe.
With stakes high and history within reach, all eyes are on the Flamingos to deliver once more.
Tags: Flamingos, Bankole Olowookere, Shakirat Moshood, FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, Blida, Algeria, #U17WWCQ, #U17WWC, CAF, Morocco, Jumai Adebayo, Kunle Soname, Ibrahim Gusau.
