Dr Mohammed Sanusi, General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has commended the U17 Women’s National Team, the Flamingos, following their return from the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.
Despite their quarter-final elimination by the USA, Sanusi believes the team’s performance merits encouragement and praise.
“The Nigeria Football Federation is proud of the Flamingos and the efforts they put into the competition,” Sanusi stated.
“Two years ago, they defeated the USA on penalties at the same stage, on their way to collecting the bronze medals. That is football for you.”
Sanusi pointed out the team’s strong performance in the group stage, where they won all three matches, scoring nine goals and conceding only one.
He emphasized the need to support and encourage the players, many of whom show promise for the U20 squad.
Returning to Nigeria on Tuesday after a 0-2 defeat to the USA in Santiago de los Caballeros, the Flamingos had previously recorded impressive victories, including a 4-1 win over New Zealand, a 4-0 rout of Ecuador, and a 1-0 victory against the Dominican Republic.
Head Coach Bankole Olowookere spoke on the USA match, noting the team’s misfortune in converting opportunities.
“Against the USA, it was simply not our day. The girls created opportunities but the ball just wouldn’t go in. The Americans took their chances, and that is football for you.”
Looking ahead, Olowookere is focused on building a stronger team for future tournaments, as the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup will transition to an annual event starting next year, with Morocco hosting the first five editions.
