Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, has rallied the country’s U-20 women’s football team as they prepare for their crucial knockout match against Japan in the ongoing FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Falconets will square off against Japan early on Friday, September 13, aiming to secure a place in the tournament’s quarterfinals.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Diana-Mary Nsan, Minister Enoh commended the team’s impressive performance during the group stages, where they recorded significant victories over South Korea and Venezuela, finishing second in Group D, tied on points with Germany but behind on goal difference.
He emphasised that the entire nation stands behind the team as they face the Japanese powerhouse.
“The Falconets have shown remarkable skill and resilience throughout the group stage. I have no doubt that they have what it takes to succeed against Japan. I urge the girls to approach the game with confidence and belief in their abilities. The entire country is behind you, and I have every confidence that you will make us proud. Play with your hearts and leave no stone unturned,” Enoh said.
Enoh also highlighted the Falconets’ tactical discipline and strong team spirit, urging them to fight for every chance.
“You have already demonstrated that you can compete with the best, and I want you to go out there and fight for every ball, for every chance, and for victory. Japan is a strong team, but so are you. This is your moment to make history, and we are all behind you,” he added.
The Falconets will be up against a formidable Japanese side that netted 13 goals in the group stage while conceding just one.
Nigeria’s head coach, Chris Danjuma, will be relying on key players like Flourish Sabastine and Chiamaka Okwuchukwu to counter Japan’s in-form attackers, particularly Maya Hijjikata, who has been instrumental for the Nadeshiko.
Japan’s coach, Michihisa Kano, expressed his confidence in his team’s ability, saying,
“For me, the aggressive and fearless approach is the strength of our Japanese women’s team and is where we excel.”
The highly anticipated match will be held at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota.
Nigeria are the only African team left in the competition after Ghana and Morocco crashed out in the group stage while Cameroon lost 3-1 to Brazil in their Round of 16 fixture.