“It’s something I love doing” – Olowookere ready as Flamingos face formidable USA challenge

Head coach of the Nigeria U-17 Women’s team, Bankole Olowookere, is fully charged and eager as he leads the Flamingos into their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup quarterfinal clash against a formidable USA side, Soccernet.ng reports.

The two teams last met at the same stage in the 2022 tournament in India, where Nigeria ultimately secured a third-place finish.

Olowookere, who aims to surpass that achievement with a strong showing from his side, recently shared his enthusiasm for coaching on his social media.

“I don’t have time for hobbies. At the end of the day, I treat my job as a hobby. It’s something I love doing,” he wrote.

Nigeria’s U-17 side made a powerful start to their World Cup campaign, kicking off with a commanding 4-1 win over New Zealand, setting the tone early as Shakirat Abidemi Moshood found the net just two minutes into the match with a sharp pass from Harmony Chidi.

Khadijat Taiwo Adegoke quickly followed up with another goal in the 13th minute, assisted by Faridat Abdulwahab, who later made it three with a superb finish in the 28th minute.

Taiwo Tewogbola Afolabi completed the Flamingos’ scoring in the 55th minute before New Zealand managed a consolation goal in the 60th minute.

Building on this momentum, the team dominated their next group match against Ecuador, securing a 4-0 win. Moshood continued her scoring streak, converting from the penalty spot in the 28th minute and solidifying her role as a driving force in Nigeria’s attack.

Olowookere’s passion and the Flamingos’ momentum set the stage for an intense quarterfinal showdown as they prepare for a high-stakes rematch against the USA.