In a morale-boosting message to Nigeria’s women football team, the Flamingos, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Friday assured the girls that Nigerians, especially the people of Edo are firmly behind them and would be cheering them on as they pursued their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title on Saturday November 8.
Nigeria’s Flamingos, on Wednesday, made history at the ongoing competition in Morocco by beating Brazil and advancing to the final for the first time.
After a goalless first half, Nigeria came back in the second half to beat Brazil 3-1 in the semi-final of the competition.
Flamingos’ Queen Joseph opened the scoring in the 56th minute, followed by a brace from Awawu Bashiru, who scored in the 71st and 80th minutes, respectively. The South Americans’ only goal came from Greise Kelly in the 89th minute.
The Flamingos, coached by Akeem Busari, will play Japan in the final of the tournament hoping to win their first-ever U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
Congratulating the Flamingos on their historic qualification for the final of the Women’s World Cup, the governor described the team’s 3-1 victory over Brazil as a remarkable achievement, applauding the players for their determination, tactical discipline, teamwork, and fighting spirit throughout the competition.
Governor Okpebholo said the Flamingos had demonstrated the resilience and competitive spirit that Nigerians are proud of, noting that their achievement has brought joy and renewed hope to football fans across the country
He particularly commended the goal scorers, Queen Joseph and Awawu Bashiru, for their outstanding contributions to the victory while praising the entire squad and technical crew for their commitment and dedication.
The governor urged the players to remain focused, disciplined, and determined as they prepared to face Japan in Saturday’s final, expressing confidence in their ability to go all the way and bring the trophy home.
Governor Okpebholo wished the victorious team success in the final, urging them to seize the historic opportunity and make Nigeria proud.