Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, has rallied support for the U-20 women’s football team, the Falconets, ahead of their crucial knockout match against Japan in the ongoing FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia.
The Falconets are set to face Japan on Friday, September 13th, aiming to secure a spot in the tournament’s quarterfinals. In a statement released by his spokesperson, Diana-Mary Nsan, Minister Enoh praised the team’s impressive performance during the group stage, where they secured vital wins over South Korea and Venezuela. The Falconets finished second in Group D, tied on points with Germany but ranked lower due to goal difference.
Enoh emphasized that the entire nation is backing the team as they face the tough Japanese side.“The Falconets have displayed exceptional skill and resilience in the group stage. I’m confident they have what it takes to succeed against Japan. I urge the girls to play with confidence and belief in their abilities. The whole country is behind you, and I’m sure you’ll make us proud. Play with heart and leave no stone unturned,” Enoh said.
The minister also applauded the team’s tactical discipline and strong spirit, encouraging them to fight for every opportunity. “You’ve already shown you can compete with the best. Fight for every ball, every chance, and victory. Japan is a strong team, but so are you. This is your moment to make history, and we’re all supporting you,” he added.
The Falconets face a formidable Japanese side that scored 13 goals during the group stage, conceding only one. Nigeria’s head coach, Chris Danjuma, will rely on key players such as Flourish Sabastine and Chiamaka Okwuchukwu to challenge Japan’s in-form attackers, especially Maya Hijjikata, who has been pivotal for the Japanese side.
Japan’s coach, Michihisa Kano, expressed confidence in his team’s fearless and aggressive style of play, saying, “This is where we excel.” The highly anticipated match will take place at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota.
Nigeria remains the only African team in the competition after Ghana, Morocco, and Cameroon were eliminated in earlier rounds.
