The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has unveiled a 21-woman squad for the upcoming FIFA U17 Women's World Cup, set to take place in the Dominican Republic. Head Coach Bankole Olowookere has named key players, including Captain Taiwo Afolabi and prolific forwards Harmony Chidi and Peace Effiong, in the roster. As the team prepares for the tournament, their departure date is scheduled for October 1, 2024.
Key Players to Watch
Among the most anticipated players is Harmony Chidi, who has proven herself as an indispensable asset to the team. Chidi scored an impressive 13 goals out of the team’s record-setting 25 in the qualification series, helping the Flamingos secure dominant victories over Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, and Liberia. Chidi’s scoring prowess will be pivotal as Nigeria aims to continue its strong performance on the global stage.
Another standout player is team captain Taiwo Afolabi, a petite but effective midfielder. She will be expected to orchestrate play from the middle of the park, linking defense and attack seamlessly. Afolabi will be supported by other midfielders such as Faridat Abdulwahab, Shakirat Moshood, and Ayomide Rotimi. Together, this midfield quartet will be crucial to Nigeria’s chances of success in the tournament.
In the goalkeeping department, first-choice goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma will lead the charge, with Sylvia Echefu and Elizabeth Boniface providing competition and ensuring depth in the squad. Uzoma’s leadership and shot-stopping abilities will be key in keeping Nigeria’s opponents at bay.
Defensive and Attacking Strength
Taiwo Adegoke has been named as the leader of the defense, and she will be supported by six other defenders, including Prisca Nwachukwu, Jumai Adebayo, and Vivian Ekezie. Adegoke and her defensive teammates will be responsible for maintaining a solid backline to protect the goal and keep Nigeria in control of games.
Leading the attacking front alongside Harmony Chidi will be Peace Effiong, another forward who has been vital to the Flamingos' qualifying campaign. Effiong, along with Kudirat Arogundade and Blessing Ifitezue, will form a dynamic and fast-paced attack, aiming to outmaneuver their Group A opponents.
Group A Challenges
Nigeria has been drawn into Group A of the 16-nation finals, where they will compete against host nation Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and New Zealand. The Flamingos will need to bring their A-game as they face tough opposition. The host nation will enjoy home support, while Ecuador and New Zealand have shown resilience in previous international competitions. The group stage matches are set to be highly competitive, and Nigeria will need to capitalize on every opportunity to advance.
Training Plans Ahead of the Tournament
In preparation for the World Cup, the Flamingos will embark on a two-week training tour in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, before the tournament kicks off. The tour will give the players time to acclimatize, bond as a team, and fine-tune their tactics ahead of their opening matches. This preparatory phase is crucial as it allows the coaching staff to assess the team’s readiness and make necessary adjustments before the group stage begins.
Full Squad List
The NFF has released the full list of players that will represent Nigeria at the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup:
Goalkeepers:
- Christiana Uzoma (Edo Queens)
- Elizabeth Boniface (Sunshine Queens)
- Sylvia Echefu (Confluence Queens)
Defenders:
- Prisca Nwachukwu (Imo Strikers)
- Jumai Adebayo (Naija Ratels)
- Taiwo Adegoke (Remo Stars Ladies)
- Rokibat Azeez (New Generation Academy)
- Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies)
- Vivian Ekezie (Heartland Queens)
- Ololade Isiaka (Abia Angels)
Midfielders:
- Taiwo Afolabi (Delta Queens)
- Faridat Abdulwahab (Nasarawa Amazons)
- Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens)
- Muinat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy)
Forwards:
- Oghenemairo Obruthe (City Sports)
- Harmony Chidi (Imo Strikers)
- Kudirat Arogundade (Green Foot)
- Ramotalahi Kareem (Honey Badgers)
- Aishat Animashaun (Naija Ratels)
- Peace Effiong (Rivers Angels)
- Blessing Ifitezue (Delta Queens)
Global Competitors
As the Flamingos prepare to face their Group A competitors, other teams will also be vying for glory in the tournament. The tournament’s other groups feature strong teams:
- Group B: Spain, USA, Korea Republic, Colombia
- Group C: Korea DPR, Mexico, Kenya, England
- Group D: Japan, Poland, Brazil, Zambia
Each group promises competitive matches, with nations like Spain, Japan, and Brazil being traditional powerhouses in women’s football. Nigeria will need to stay focused and sharp to advance beyond the group stage and make a mark in this prestigious competition.
Conclusion
The FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup presents a significant opportunity for the Flamingos to showcase their talent on a global stage. With a squad packed with experienced and promising players, Nigeria is well-positioned to challenge for the title. Under the guidance of Coach Bankole Olowookere, and with players like Harmony Chidi and Taiwo Afolabi leading the charge, the team is ready to face the world. Nigerian fans will be eagerly watching and supporting the Flamingos as they aim for success in the Dominican Republic.
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