By Harry Awurumibe, Editor, Abuja Bureau
Despite their 0-2 reverse against Spain in their first match at the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland on Monday, Nigeria’s Ambassador to that country, Her Excellency, Mrs Chioma Ohakim Esq, did not abandon the team or feel dejected like everyone else.
She watched the match played at the Stadion Sosnowiec, and alongside mission staff, did her best to support and encourage the team.
After the game, Ambassador Ohakim took time to interact with the players and technical crew, encouraging the girls not to be discouraged by their opening defeat to Spain. She urged the team to put the result behind them and remain focused on their next challenge against China, reminding them that they played good football and have every reason to remain confident.
In a thoughtful gesture, the top diplomat also brought Nigerian food for the players, helping to lift the mood and give the team a taste of home while away in Poland. Her presence and words of encouragement provided a timely morale boost as the Falconets turned their attention to their crucial clash with China.
The two-time silver-medallists take to the pitch of the Stadion Sosnowiec for the second time on Thursday evening, when they take on China in a match that matters so much.
The Chinese girls are highly motivated after a 5-0 pounding of New Caledonia in their first match – a result that has established them at the top of the Group F table, ahead of 2022 champions Spain on goals difference.
Nigeria and China have met twice previously at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup finals. In 2006 in Russia – the very competition where the event was renamed FIFA U20 (as against U19 for the two first tournaments in Canada and Thailand), China defeated the Falconets 3-0 in a group phase match at the Podmoskovie Stadium.
In 2018 in France, a late own goal by a Chinese defender handed Nigeria a 1-1 draw in their match in Dinan-Léhon – a result that sent the Falconets into the tournament’s quarter finals.
Coach Moses Aduku said on Wednesday night: “We have put the match against Spain behind us and focussing totally on the clash with China. The players are ready to come out stronger for the match against China.”
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