Nigeria’s women’s U-20 coach Moses Aduku says winning the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup has been his goal since he took over the Falconets. His team faces England in the round of 16 in Poland today, as reported by The PUNCH.
The Falconets will play England at Stadion Miejski Bielsko-Biała. Aduku insists that winning the trophy is the main aim, despite the challenge from the European side.
“It will not surprise us. Right from the first day I was appointed, I made it clear to the players and the backroom staff that my vision is to win the World Cup. And I told them they could back out if they were not ready,” Aduku said.
“So, if we win by Thursday, it will not be a surprise for me, and the celebrations will end on the pitch. We will focus on the next game. We will make Nigeria proud, by God’s grace.”
Nigeria reached the round of 16 after a massive 10-1 win over New Caledonia last Sunday. They had lost 2-0 to Spain in their first game and drew 0-0 with China in their second match.
Ramotalahi Kareem scored first from the penalty spot and completed her hat-trick. Substitute Winner Onajite David also scored three goals as the Falconets secured their spot in the knockout stage.
Before today’s match, Aduku said the team has been back in training, focusing on scoring goals and defending better. "This is the future for Nigeria because after this level, they will move to the next level of their careers.”
Nigeria has played in every edition of the tournament since it started in 2002. They are two-time runners-up, finishing second in 2010 and 2014. They also won a bronze medal in 2012.
The Falconets lost both finals to Germany. Now they hope to keep their dream of winning a first world title alive against England.
Nigeria, Brazil, and the United States are the only teams that have participated in every edition of the tournament. Germany did not qualify for this year’s event.
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