Falconets shine bright: Six Nigerian stars make Best XI Team at CAF WAFU B U20 Girls Cup

Six players from Nigeria’s U20 national women’s team have been selected by CAF for the Best XI Team of the group stage at the ongoing WAFU 20 Girls Cup of Nations in Ghana, Soccernet.ng reports.

Alongside these talented Nigerian girls, four Ghanaians and one player from Burkina Faso have also earned their place in the prestigious lineup.

These six Falconets players played pivotal roles in securing Nigeria’s position at the top of Group B, triumphing in all three games thus far in the tournament.

Their journey began with a resounding 7-0 victory over Niger in the opening match, followed by a remarkable 6-0 win against Togo. They capped off the group stage with a convincing 3-0 triumph over Burkina Faso on matchday three. All of these exhilarating encounters took place at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

Impressively, the Best XI team boasts a rock-solid defence, with four Nigerian prodigies leading the charge.

This exceptional backline comprises goalkeeper Anderline Mgbaechi, left-back Jumoke Alani, centre-back Shukurat Oladipo, and right-back Oluchi Ohaegbukem, all of whom were instrumental in maintaining clean sheets throughout the group stage.

In the heart of the midfield, the dynamic Chinyere Kalu joins forces with two talented Ghanaian stars.

At the forefront, free-scoring Nigerian striker Esther Ajakaye secures her spot alongside Ghana’s Nyame and Burkina Faso’s Sadikou.

Arguably the standout player of the tournament, Esther Ajakaye has left an indelible mark with an impressive tally of six goals in just three games, firmly establishing herself as the leading goal scorer.

As Group B leaders, Nigeria will lock horns with Benin, the runners-up from Group A, in a highly-anticipated semifinal clash on Wednesday. 

Meanwhile, Ghana and Burkina Faso will engage in an intense battle for the other ticket to the final.