As the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia looms large, Nigeria’s Falconets are on a mission to make history, says head coach Christopher Danjuma, Soccernet.ng reports.
Having come close to glory twice before, finishing as runners-up in 2010 and 2014, the team is determined to go one step further and secure their first-ever title.
Leading this charge is coach Danjuma, a seasoned tactician who has been at the helm since 2017. With years of experience and a deep connection to the team, Danjuma believes the Falconets have what it takes to conquer the world.
In an interview with FIFA, Danjuma shared his optimism, stating, “I am convinced that we are on the right path.
“At every edition, we showcase formidable players like Asisat Oshoala, who emerged as a star during the 2014 U-20 World Cup. I am sure that other ‘Agba Ballers’ (which means ‘legend’ in Nigerian slang), as our fans call them, will emerge in Colombia.”
The coach has seen his fair share of highs and lows, including the heartbreaking quarterfinal exit at the hands of the Netherlands in the 2022 edition.
Reflecting on that experience, Danjuma revealed, “We have worked extensively on our effectiveness in front of goal, as that was what we lacked two years ago.”
Nigeria, drawn into Group D alongside Germany, Venezuela, and South Korea, face a challenging road ahead.
Danjuma is under no illusions about the task at hand but sees it as an opportunity to showcase the Falconets’ talent on the global stage.
“These three nations place great importance on the development of women’s football. Being in the same group as these countries is a privilege and promises very competitive matches,” he remarked.
Preparation has been key for the Falconets, with Danjuma highlighting the team’s focus on mental fortitude and tactical awareness.
“We are focusing on the mental aspect, particularly on how to handle the competition. We will be facing tough teams, so we need to be mentally strong from the start,” he explained.
This meticulous approach, coupled with a strong team spirit, has set the stage for what could be a historic campaign.
The squad features a mix of local talent and experienced professionals, with players like Rofiat Imuran, Flourish Sabastine, Reilly Adebowale, and Aminat Bello expected to lead by example. However, Danjuma is quick to acknowledge the contributions of the homegrown players, noting their importance to the team’s success.
“Without a doubt, they are key players, emblematic figures of the team,” Danjuma admits.” Their mere presence boosts and energizes the squad.
“However, the core of the team is made up of players from the local league, and we also want to highlight their merit and importance.
“The main thing is to see the progress our players have made and their ability to stand out on the international stage against tough opponents.”
Supporting Danjuma is former Super Falcons star Effioanwan Ekpo, who brings a wealth of experience and serves as a role model for the young players.
“She is very popular and admired in Nigeria. Her unwavering determination on the field has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all Nigerians,” Danjuma noted, adding that Ekpo’s psychological support has been invaluable to the team.
As the tournament approaches, Danjuma’s belief in his team is unwavering.
“It seems to me that we are getting close to our goal. We have a spiritual dimension because we are Africans. We are convinced that this is the right time to recreate those moments and situations that happened in 2010 and 2014. I believe that for the first time, Africa will be at the top of the world,” he declared.
With the tournament set to kick off on August 31 and run until September 22, all eyes will be on the Falconets as they aim to achieve what no Nigerian team has done before — bring home the U-20 Women’s World Cup title.