Nigeria’s historic run at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup has attracted strong backing from the country’s highest office and the leadership of African football, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe joining the celebrations ahead of Saturday’s final.
The Flamingos secured their place in the championship match after defeating Brazil 3-1 in Wednesday’s semi-final in Rabat, becoming the first African team to reach the final of the competition.
Their achievement has now prompted messages of congratulations and support from both leaders, with the prospect of Nigeria winning its first-ever title adding further significance to the occasion.
In a statement issued by the State House on Thursday, Tinubu described the team’s qualification as a remarkable achievement that had brought immense pride and joy to millions of Nigerians at home and abroad.
The President also applauded the coaching crew and everyone whose hard work and support contributed to the team’s successful campaign.
As the young Nigerians prepare to face Japan, Tinubu urged them to maintain the determination and belief that have carried them to the final.
“I encourage you to approach the final with the same fighting spirit and belief that have brought you this far. I have confidence in your ability to make history by winning the coveted world title,” he said.
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He also called on Nigerians to unite behind the team, describing the players as young ambassadors whose achievements continue to showcase the country’s sporting excellence and inspire a new generation of girls to pursue their dreams.
“I call on all Nigerians to rally behind the young ambassadors of the nation, whose achievements continue to showcase Nigeria’s sporting excellence and inspire a new generation of girls to pursue their dreams uninhibited.
“Once again, Nigeria is proud of you. Go for the trophy, Flamingos!” the President added.
CAF President Motsepe has also congratulated the Nigerian side and confirmed that he will travel to Rabat to watch the final against Japan on Saturday, November 7.
Motsepe’s planned attendance adds to the continental significance of the occasion, with all 54 CAF Member Associations expected to rally behind the Flamingos as they pursue a historic title for Nigeria and Africa.
The CAF president’s message has been framed around a collective show of support for the team, with the rallying call: “All for Nigeria. All for Africa.”
Nigeria’s journey to the final has been particularly impressive given the challenge they faced after losing their opening group match against Poland. They recovered with victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions DPR Korea before eliminating Mexico and Venezuela in the knockout rounds.
Their 3-1 victory over Brazil then secured a place in the final, where Japan stand between the Flamingos and a first world title.
Japan advanced after drawing 1-1 with defending champions DPR Korea before winning their semi-final penalty shoot-out 4-1.
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Saturday’s encounter represents an opportunity to go beyond the bronze medal won at India 2022 and become the first African nation to lift the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
