Head Coach Bankole Olowookere has unveiled a formidable 20-player squad for Nigeria’s U17 girls’ team, the Flamingos, ahead of the WAFU B U17 Girls’ Cup, which kicks off in Ghana on Thursday.
Among the squad are FIFA World Cup scorers Shakirat Moshood and Harmony Chidi, promising a strong offensive showing for the team.
The squad also features seasoned players across all positions, including goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma of Edo Queens, defenders Taiwo Adegoke and Ayomide Ibrahim, and midfield dynamo Faridat Abdulwahab. Forwards Peace Effiong and Mary Nkpa are also expected to add firepower to the Flamingos’ attack.
The competition will see the Flamingos placed in Group B alongside the U17 teams of Niger Republic and Côte d’Ivoire. Host nation Ghana will compete in Group A alongside Benin Republic, following the withdrawals of Burkina Faso and Togo.
Nigeria’s Flamingos head into the tournament with confidence, having reached the quarter-finals of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic earlier this year.
The team displayed remarkable skill, netting nine goals during the group stage before a narrow defeat to the United States in the Round of 8.
Coach Olowookere expressed optimism about the tournament, stating: “This is a talented group of young players who have proven themselves on the global stage. We are ready to give our best and aim for the trophy.”
The WAFU B U17 Girls’ Cup will serve as both a regional championship and a platform for these players to further showcase their potential on the international stage.
