The Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, has encouraged Nigeria’s U-20 women’s football team, the Falconets, to approach their upcoming knockout match against Japan with courage and determination.
The Falconets are set to face Japan in the early hours of Friday in their quest for a quarterfinal spot at the ongoing FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Diana-Mary Nsan, Enoh praised the team’s remarkable performance in the group stage, where they secured impressive victories against South Korea and Venezuela, ultimately finishing second in Group D, tied on points with Germany.
The minister urged the team to continue making history and to face Japan without fear, emphasizing that the entire nation is fully behind them.
“The Falconets have displayed incredible skill and resilience during the group stage. I am confident they have what it takes to succeed against Japan.
I encourage them to step onto the pitch with belief and confidence.
The whole country is supporting you, and I have no doubt that you will make us proud.
Play with heart and leave no stone unturned,” Enoh said.
He highlighted the team’s strong spirit and tactical discipline throughout their journey to the knockout stages and expressed optimism that their determination will shine through as they aim for a place in the quarterfinals.
“You’ve proven you can compete with the best, and I urge you to fight for every ball and every opportunity.
Japan is a tough opponent, but so are you. This is your chance to make history, and we are all behind you,” Enoh added.
