Editor
Africa’s most promising contender for a podium finish at the ongoing FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, Nigeria, has arrived back in the Colombian capital, Bogota, in preparation for their Round of 16 encounter with Japan.
Japan, a formidable force in women’s football on a global scale, emerged as the leaders of Group E, which also featured Austria, New Zealand, and Africa’s representative, Ghana. Unfortunately, Ghana was eliminated from the tournament after defeats to Japan and Austria, and a narrow victory over New Zealand.
The Falconets advanced to the Round of 16 following a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Korea Republic, a 1-3 loss to Germany, and an impressive 4-0 triumph over Venezuela in Cali.
“Our team has displayed immense dedication to reach this stage, and we are immensely proud of their efforts. As we approach the knockout phase, we are focused on taking each match as it comes. We are eagerly anticipating the challenge of facing Japan and the opportunities it presents,” expressed Coach Chris Musa Danjuma upon the team’s return to the capital on Wednesday night.
The showdown between Nigeria and Japan is scheduled to take place at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota, where the Falconets competed in their initial two group stage matches against Korea Republic and Germany, commencing at 2 am Nigerian time (8 pm on Thursday in Colombia) on Friday, September 13th.
