Nigeria’s Democratic Congress has hailed the Flamingos after the national Under-17 women’s side reached the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final for the first time, calling on the players to beat Japan and return home with the title.
Quick facts
- The Flamingos are the first African side to reach the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final.
- Nigeria beat Brazil 3-1 in the semi-finals in Morocco, ending the Samba Queens’ unbeaten tournament record.
- The final against Japan is scheduled for Saturday.
- The team recovered from an opening 2-1 loss to Poland to become leading title contenders.
The NDC said the team’s displays had given millions of Nigerians a welcome reason to celebrate during a period of severe economic pressure and hardship across the country.
National Publicity Secretary Osa Director praised the players’ resolve, persistence and dedication in representing Nigeria. He said their progress to the final marked a landmark moment for both the team and African football.
The party’s message came after Nigeria’s 3-1 semi-final win over Brazil, a result that stopped the South American team’s unbeaten streak at the tournament in Morocco.
Director said the route to the final showed how determined young Nigerians could overcome obstacles and deliver at the highest level.
“You have made the nation proud,” he said. “Your wins have helped lift Nigerians from the hunger, poverty and sadness caused by the destructive policies imposed by the ruling party.”
He noted that the Flamingos opened the competition with a 2-1 defeat against Poland before responding strongly and emerging as genuine contenders for the trophy.
Director also pointed to Nigeria’s 3-1 success over two-time winners North Korea, which brought the Asian nation’s eight-year undefeated record in the competition to an end.
In the knockout rounds, the Flamingos defeated Mexico 2-1 in the last 16, edged Venezuela 1-0 in the quarter-finals and then produced the commanding 3-1 victory over Brazil in the last four.
Those results, the spokesman said, highlighted the squad’s competitive character and its determination to represent Nigeria with pride on the global stage.
With Japan awaiting in Saturday’s final, Director urged the players to maintain their concentration, discipline and belief as they attempt to complete an extraordinary tournament with the trophy.
“As you get ready for Saturday’s final against Japan, stay focused and give everything,” he said. “You have written history already, but you now have another chance to make Nigeria and all of Africa proud by bringing the Cup home.”
He said the NDC and Nigerians nationwide were firmly backing the Flamingos in their pursuit of another historic milestone.
“The NDC and Nigerians stand completely with you,” he added. “We trust your ability and encourage you to give everything to win the trophy.”
The party said the team’s run underlined what Nigerian young people can achieve when they receive opportunities, motivation and adequate support.
It called on the government and sports bodies to continue funding grassroots sport, with particular emphasis on women’s football, so emerging talent can compete strongly in international events.
