News

FIFA U-17 WWC: Olowookere reveals Flamingos’ key to 100% group stage success

Flamingos’ head coach, Bankole Olowookere, has revealed how Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team achieved a perfect group stage record at the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.

The result secured a perfect group stage record for Nigeria and set up a quarter-final clash with the USA. Notably, this marks the third time in FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup history that the Flamingos have achieved an unbeaten group stage finish.

Reacting on his social media page after their 1-0 victory over host nation Dominican Republic, Olowookere praised the team’s resilience and focus in sticking to their objectives despite tough conditions.

“Spirited performance from the squad against the host nation, Dominican Republic. We stay glued to our objectives and goals at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.” Olowokere wrote on his Social media page.

The Flamingos encountered tough opposition under challenging weather conditions, with rain hampering their usual fluid play. Despite dominating possession, they found it difficult to break down the Dominican Republic’s defence, led by Captain Renata Mercedes and goalkeeper Rondon, who repelled numerous Nigerian attacks, including 16 corners.

It was Shakirat Moshood who finally made the breakthrough in the 89th minute, scoring her fourth goal of the tournament with a powerful strike from 24 yards to seal all three points.

The goal not only handed Nigeria the win but also ensured they topped Group A, three points clear of second-placed Ecuador, who defeated New Zealand 4-0 in their final group game.

Olowookere made several changes to his line-up, including bringing in Rokibat Azeez, Blessing Ifitezue, and Ramotalahi Kareem, before restoring Peace Effiong and Harmony Chidi later in the game.

However, it was Moshood’s spectacular effort that ultimately decided the contest, sending the Flamingos into the quarter-finals with confidence.

With this victory, Nigeria will now face the USA in a highly anticipated quarter-final match on Saturday.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories. Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work. With a Bachelor's degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master's Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.

Share
Published by
Ayomide Oguntimehin

Recent Posts

What happens if he gets injured? – Former Nigeria striker laments Super Eagles over-reliance on Victor Osimhen

Former Super Eagles attacking midfielder, Etim Esin, has revealed the Super Eagles must reduce their… Read More

9 minutes ago

“Perhaps the best player in the league” – Former Galatasaray superstar praises Osimhen after Bodrumspor display

Former Turkey striker Umit Karan has praised Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen for his performance… Read More

3 hours ago

Like Troost-Ekong, meet the Dutch-Nigerian starlet who admires Jay-Jay Okocha and Cristiano Ronaldo

The football world is constantly brimming with many talents, most of whom have trained all… Read More

3 hours ago

“Why I find Lookman to be a great player” – Sunday Oliseh shares his thoughts on Atalanta Forward

Former Super Eagles captain, Sunday Oliseh, has expressed his admiration for Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman,… Read More

3 hours ago

Photo: Calvin Bassey makes priceless reaction as Iwobi scores Puskás-worthy goal against Wolves

Fulham defender Calvin Bassey was full of admiration for Alex Iwobi’s spectacular goal in their… Read More

6 hours ago

Portuguese gaffer praises Iwobi’s brilliance but rues misfortunes in Fulham’s defeat to Wolves

Fulham manager Marco Silva praised Alex Iwobi’s sensational first-half strike but expressed frustration at the… Read More

7 hours ago