Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos are taking a leaf out of the Super Falcons’ playbook, with coach Bankole Olowookere convinced Morocco is destined to host another chapter of Nigerian football glory.
The Flamingos boss says the senior team’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph in July was no accident and he plans to harness that same energy.
“After our seniors (Super Falcons) achieved that might, I’ve called Morocco ‘the land of blessings for Nigeria in year 2025’ and I’m a bit spiritual about my football. If anybody has done something good in this world you’ve to follow that step,” Olowookere told Brila FM.
Flamingos of Nigeria. Photo Credit: X
For him, the Falcons’ success was more than a trophy lift, it was a blueprint.
“I’ve seen something that they’ve done and I’ve been able to put it into my own program too as well so I can get something better.”
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The coach points out that Morocco has delivered joy to Nigeria across the board from the men’s teams to the women’s.
“Even the men too as well. It’s a land of destiny that God has given us. I’ve stepped into that place and work is going on, it’s not something that we can just go and pick.”
Bankole Olowookere. Photo Credit:X
And he’s under no illusions: destiny alone won’t win a World Cup.
“We’re going to work towards it. The players are working hard, the technical [crew] are working hard to achieve it for Nigeria.”
Olowookere’s conviction is rooted in faith as much as football.
“So, the land of Morocco this year is for Nigeria. I’m seeing it by the grace of God, as God lives this year is Nigeria’s time, it’s our period. We’re going there to achieve.”
The Flamingos, bronze medallists at the 2022 edition, have reached seven of the past eight tournaments but are still hunting their first global crown.
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This year’s expanded finals, with 24 teams, will be staged from 17 October to 8 November. North Korea are the reigning champions.
