Joe
Nigeria’s U20 women’s football team, the Falconets, will kick off their campaign in the 11th FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup with a high-stakes match against Korea Republic. The match is set to take place at 6 p.m. (Sunday, September 1st) in Colombia, which corresponds to the early hours of Monday in Nigeria.
As two-time runners-up, the Falconets are expected to start strong as they face their fast-paced East Asian counterparts at the 10,000-capacity Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogotá. The opening match is the first of two tough games for Nigeria, with a clash against three-time champions Germany following on Wednesday.
Head Coach Chris Danjuma expressed confidence in his team’s preparations, emphasizing the importance of getting the tactics right against Korea Republic. “We are working on our tactics and techniques to ensure we perform well against the Koreans. Once we succeed in that, we will shift our focus to the Germans,” Danjuma told thenff.com. He also noted that the team is injury-free and ready to make Nigeria proud.
On Saturday, FIFA Match Director Abeer Rantisi visited the Falconets’ hotel in Bogotá to present the certification of participation to Nigeria, which was accepted by team captain Oluchi Ohaegbulam. Ohaegbulam is set to lead from the midfield, while goalkeeper Faith Omilana is expected to start in goal. The defensive lineup is likely to feature Comfort Folorunsho, Shukurat Oladipo, Rofiat Imuran, and Jumoke Alani.
In the midfield, Aminat Omowunmi Bello, Yina Adoo, Chioma Olise, and Olushola Shobowale are potential starters alongside Ohaegbulam. The attacking lineup could include Janet Akekoromowei, Opeyemi Ajakaye, Flourish Sabastine, and Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, who will spearhead Nigeria’s hunt for goals.
