Bankole Olowookere made history on Friday when he led the Flamingos to a victory over the United States in the quarterfinal of the U17 Women’s World Cup, becoming the first head coach to lead Nigeria to the semifinal round.
Nigeria took the lead in the 26th minute when Edafe Omamuzo scored from the spot but the Americans equalized through Amalia Villarreal before the end of the first half. The encounter ended in a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes, with Nigeria going on to win 4-3 on penalties and reach the semi final of the tournament for the first time.
In response to the outcome, Olowookere stated that he feels on top of the world for having done his country proud. He told the media:
“I feel on top of the world. I feel happy. I feel great. I feel making Nigeria proud as of this time is one of the best things I can ever do for my generation. I’m happy to be able to make my mark and being part of the people that contribute to the growth of Nigeria is a thing of joy to my life and to my family and to those that know me.”
Nigeria will face Colombia in a place for the final on Wednesday, 26 October. The match will be played at the Fatorda Stadium in Goa. Olowookere is determined to reach the final. He said:
“We can do more. That’s what I tell the girls,” he continued. “If you’ve done well, you can do better. If we’ve gone to the semi final, who says we cannot get to the final? We are putting our strategy together and with the help of God we will play in the final, and that is the expectation of millions of Nigerians.”
