AUCKLAND-Flamingoes coach Felix Ibe-Ukwu is confident that his wards will progress to the knockout phase of the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup.
The Nigerians laboured to a 2-1 win over Korea in their opening game, and then lost a gut-wrenching second game against a disciplined England despite dominating a totally one-sided encounter.
Ibe though insisted that progress was a certainty.
“Football is a game of opportunities, and we played well for 90 minutes, but didn’t make the most of our opportunities,” he said after the loss. “But I am confident for the game against Brazil, I have no fear. I know we will qualify, I am sure we will qualify!”
NFF President Sani Lulu Abdullahi, who flew into Wellington just hours before the game, told the tearful players to to pick up their morale and believe in their ability to overhaul Brazil in Wednesday’s final Group D game.
“This is not the time for self–pity: It is time for you girls to look reflect on what has happened and be ready to go for the jugular of the Brazilians. I have faith in you and I want you to have faith in yourselves,” he said.
The squad was expected to depart Wellington yesterday afternoon for Christchurch, venue of tomorrow’s game against Brazil at the Queen Elizabeth II Stadium.
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