![The Flamingos at training](https://b.blackcampus.online/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20240517-WA0001.jpg)
The Flamingos at training | Credit: NFF
Head Coach Bankole Olowookere has emphasized that the Nigeria U17 girls are fully focused on their upcoming FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifying match against Burkina Faso, rather than looking ahead to a potential final round clash against either Senegal or Liberia.
“We have one hurdle to cross before the final hurdle, and that is what we are thinking about. Yes, we know it would be either Senegal or Liberia in the final round, but we have to first get past the roadblock mounted by Burkina Faso.
“We missed several opportunities in the first leg. If we had converted those chances, we would be more relaxed to see this match as a formality. However, we must convert our chances on Saturday, and that can only be achieved through good presence of mind and focus.”
Olowookere, who guided the Flamingos to a third-place finish at the last edition of the global finals in India, stressed that victory on Saturday is crucial to advancing to the final round, where Senegal currently leads Liberia 3-1 after the first leg.
The Flamingos received motivation on Thursday from NFF Technical Director Coach Augustine Eguavoen and Enugu Rangers FC CEO Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, who both attended the team’s training session.
Eguavoen commented, “I’m pleased with what I have seen, and I can assure you that I will deliver my monetary gift to you after the match.” Ezeaku, impressed by the girls’ training, promised the team the sum of one million naira.
The match against Burkina Faso will take place at the MKO Abiola National Stadium on Saturday at 4:30 pm, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Bamako last Saturday.
Do you think the Flamingos can overpower Burkina Faso?