Head coach of Nigeria’s U-17 girls’s group, Bankole Olowookere, has mirrored on the Flamingos’ FIFA U-17 Ladies’s World Cup marketing campaign, describing it as a priceless studying expertise regardless of their round-of-16 exit to Italy.
Talking on arrival in Abuja following the group’s return from Morocco, Olowookere stated that though the 4-0 defeat was painful, his gamers confirmed braveness and dedication all through the match.
“We got here into the World Cup with excessive hopes and the idea that we might do one thing particular,” he stated. “The outcome in opposition to Italy didn’t go our means, however that’s soccer. Generally, the teachings are simply as essential because the victories.”
Olowookere defined that most of the gamers have been that includes of their first main worldwide competitors and that the expertise gained would form their future growth. He emphasised that the publicity to totally different taking part in types, ways, and environments would assist them develop into stronger, extra assured footballers.
“The World Cup gave these ladies a way of what it means to play on the highest stage,” he continued. “They’ve realized self-discipline, teamwork, and psychological power. These are qualities that may serve them properly as they transfer ahead of their careers.”
The coach additionally recommended his group’s combating spirit, particularly after a tough begin within the group stage, noting that their capacity to bounce again and qualify for the knockout rounds confirmed character and resilience.
He went on to thank Nigerians for his or her steady help, saying the love and encouragement from followers throughout the nation meant lots to the younger gamers.
“We didn’t obtain the whole lot we needed, however we’ve laid a powerful basis for the long run,” Olowookere added. “These ladies are the way forward for Nigerian girls’s soccer, and I’m happy with what they’ve accomplished.”
The Flamingos will now return to their golf equipment earlier than regrouping forward of the subsequent developmental section deliberate by the Nigeria Soccer Federation (NFF).
