Former coach of Nigeria’s U-17 ladies’s group, Bala Nkiyu, has warned the Falconets towards adopting a defensive mindset once they face Senegal within the return leg of their FIFA U-20 Ladies’s World Cup qualifier.
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Nigeria head into the decisive conflict with a slim 1–0 benefit from the primary leg performed at residence, however Nkiyu believes defending that lead by sitting deep may very well be expensive towards a bodily sturdy and decided Senegalese aspect.
“Will probably be a really powerful take a look at,” Nkiyu mentioned. “A one-goal lead is rarely sufficient to chill out, particularly away from residence. The Falconets should proceed to play their pure attacking sport.”
The skilled youth coach pressured that concern or panic may undo the great work already performed by the group, urging the gamers to method the match with confidence and bravado.
“Making an attempt to defend for 90 minutes is just too dangerous,” he added. “They have to assault, press and specific themselves. That’s how Nigerian groups succeed at this degree.”
Nkiyu praised the Falconets for grinding out a slender win within the first leg however insisted that enchancment is required forward of the return fixture, notably in decision-making and composure within the ultimate third.
He additionally highlighted the significance of psychological power, noting that Senegal will come out aggressively in entrance of their supporters.
“Senegal will throw every part at Nigeria. The ladies should keep calm, imagine of their potential and play with out concern,” he mentioned.
Nigeria are chasing qualification for the FIFA U-20 Ladies’s World Cup, and Nkiyu believes the present Falconets squad has the standard to progress if they continue to be true to their attacking id.
“This group has expertise,” he concluded. “In the event that they play positively and with confidence, they’ll end the job and qualify.”
The return leg guarantees to be a stern examination, however the Falconets know {that a} disciplined but attacking efficiency may safe their place on the international match.

