Bankole Olowookere Aims for Easter Gift for Nigerians with Flamingos’ Victory Against Algeria

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The head coach of Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, Bankole Olowookere, has expressed that a win over Algeria in the forthcoming FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier would be an ideal Easter present for the Nigerian populace.

The Flamingos are set to compete against the Algerian U-17 team on Saturday, April 20, at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, marking the first leg of the final qualifying round for the 2025 tournament in Morocco.

Olowookere attributed the team’s advancement to divine intervention and the support from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

“I give all the glory to God for how far He has helped us. Without Him, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” Olowookere stated during an interview on Sport Gallery, a radio program on Crowther 88.5 FM Oyo.

He also expressed gratitude to the NFF for their continued support of the team.

He encouraged fans to attend the match in large numbers, donning green and white to rally behind the girls in Ikenne.

“This is another opportunity for Nigerians to demonstrate their support. We need their voices and presence at the stadium, just as they have in the past,” he remarked.

Olowookere further confirmed that the team is in excellent condition, with no injury issues reported in the camp, and expressed confidence in the players’ preparedness for the significant match.

“The girls are confident and fully prepared. There’s no fear or injury in camp. Journalists who attended our training sessions can attest to that,” he noted.

The second leg of the qualifier is set to occur on April 25.