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Akeem Busari Confident Flamingos Will Overcome Benin in FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifier
Nigeria U-17 women’s national team head coach, Akeem Busari, has expressed confidence that the Flamingos will emerge victorious when they face the Benin Republic in the first leg of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers on Saturday.
Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, Busari acknowledged the growing competitiveness of women’s football across Africa, stressing that every nation is eager to secure a place at the global tournament.
“It’s always a keenly contested affair between Nigeria and other African nations because everybody wants to be part of the World Cup. Nigeria has consistently been among the contenders, and every match is like a tug of war. I believe Benin Republic are well prepared, and we are equally prepared. The 90 minutes will decide the outcome, and I believe we will come out victorious.”
The coach explained that the current squad is the product of a structured developmental process that began with nationwide screening exercises in Abuja. According to him, the team is still evolving as new players continue to be integrated into the setup.
“In football, development is a gradual process. We started from Abuja with continuous screening, selecting and dropping players while instilling the philosophy of what we want to achieve. We’ve made progress from one stage to another. Some players have remained, while others have joined. It’s a building process.”
Busari added that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) would assess the team’s progress after the qualifiers, with preparations for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup expected to intensify if the Flamingos qualify.
“After the qualifiers, the NFF will ask for our reports, and from there we will continue building the team. If we qualify, we’ll play quality friendly matches to prepare adequately for the World Cup. Right now, our full focus is on the qualifiers.”
On his team’s tactical approach, the Flamingos boss emphasized the importance of smooth transitions between defence, midfield and attack while also acknowledging the attacking threat posed by their opponents.
“Transition in play is very important—from defence to midfield and attack. Benin Republic are capable of scoring, so we’ve worked on how to neutralise their strengths. Both teams have prepared tactically, and once the match begins, we’ll see the outcome. I believe, by God’s grace, the Flamingos will carry the day.”
Busari also admitted that the team is still a work in progress, insisting there is always room for improvement despite his satisfaction with the current squad.
“Every team has its strengths and weaknesses. We are working on every aspect of our game because this team is still developing. We’re proud of the players we have, and with continuity, the team will continue to improve. There is no perfect team; there will always be areas to work on.”
Addressing questions about player eligibility, Busari maintained that every member of the squad meets the age requirements set by the competition’s regulations.
“As long as players fall within the stipulated age bracket, they are eligible to play. Some of these girls have previously represented Nigeria at youth national team level.”
The coach concluded by expressing confidence in the character and commitment of his players, saying they fully understand the philosophy of the team and are determined to give their best for the country.
“The character of a team reflects its philosophy. These are the girls we have, and they are ready to fight for Nigeria.”
