Former Nigeria U-17 women’s national team coach Bankole Olowookere believes the Flamingos have the quality to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup but has warned that tactical discipline, concentration and effective game management will be crucial in the knockout stage.
Nigeria will face Mexico in the round of 16 on Thursday, October 29, in Morocco, after recovering from an opening defeat to Poland with victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions Korea DPR.
Olowookere expressed confidence in the team’s potential while stressing that improvements in attacking play must be matched by greater tactical awareness.
“This is the World Cup, where everything matters, and you have to be tactically sound at this level,” he said.
The former Flamingos coach acknowledged the progress made by the Nigerian youngsters since their opening match, particularly in their attacking combinations, confidence in possession and ability to convert chances.
However, he cautioned against allowing opponents to dictate the tempo, insisting that the players must remain committed to their tactical approach even under pressure.
“Maintain your game pattern, maintain your control, and then maintain your focus while at the World Cup,” Olowookere advised.
He also urged the players to remain focused on the team’s collective ambition rather than become distracted by individual performances or the excitement surrounding their progress.
“You want to win the World Cup, and I know this team can win the World Cup,” he declared.
The Flamingos began their campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Poland before responding with a 2-0 victory over Puerto Rico. They then delivered an impressive performance against Korea DPR, winning 3-1 through goals from Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Oluebube Umejiaku and Kanyinsola Yusuf.
The victory secured second place in Group B and set up a last-16 meeting with Mexico, who also recovered from an opening defeat to finish second in Group F.
With a quarter-final place at stake, Nigeria will need to combine their attacking confidence with the tactical organisation and composure required to overcome their opponents.
Olowookere’s message is clear: the Flamingos have demonstrated their potential, but sustaining that progress will require discipline, concentration and the ability to control decisive moments.
Category: Sports
Subcategory: Women’s Football
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