Falconets captain Joy Ibekwe has declared that Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team is determined to make the country proud at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, insisting the players have embraced a winning mentality under head coach Moses Aduku.
The Falconets head into the global tournament with high expectations as one of Africa’s most successful youth teams, having consistently challenged for honours on the world stage.
Speaking ahead of the competition, Ibekwe said preparations have gone according to plan, with the squad adapting well to the coaching philosophy introduced by Aduku.
“Training has been going very well, and the team is adapting to everything the coaches want from us. We are working hard every day because we know what is at stake,” Ibekwe said.
The skipper revealed that the players have fully embraced Aduku’s uncompromising approach, where settling for anything less than victory is unacceptable.
“Second is not an option’ is the mentality our coach has instilled in us. We have bought into that philosophy, and we’re determined to give everything to achieve our objectives,” she added.
Ibekwe also described wearing the captain’s armband for Nigeria as one of the greatest honours of her career, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with leading one of the country’s most successful national teams.
The midfielder called on Nigerians to continue supporting the Falconets throughout the tournament, expressing confidence that the players will repay the faith shown in them with committed performances on the pitch.
Nigeria has a proud history at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, reaching the final on two occasions and producing several players who later became stars of the Super Falcons. The current squad will be aiming to build on that legacy by competing strongly against the world’s best young talents.
With preparations entering the final phase, Ibekwe believes the Falconets are mentally and physically ready to represent Nigeria with pride as they pursue success on the global stage.
