Emmanuel Babayaro backs Flamingos to win U17 Women’s World Cup for Babangida

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Former Nigeria International, Emmanuel Babayaro, has provided motivational advice to the U-17 girls as they prepare for their crucial clash against Liberia in the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

Babayaro emphasized the importance of qualifying for the World Cup and encouraged the team to aim for winning the elusive title.

Since the inception of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 1991, the Nigerian women’s football teams at various levels have yet to secure an international title. The U-20 women’s team has twice come close, finishing as runners-up to Germany.

The U-17 team, known as the Flamingos, finished third at the previous World Cup in India and are determined to surpass that achievement in the next tournament. This ambition was echoed by Babayaro during the team’s visit to Tijani Babangida at his Abuja residence.

“Strive to be crowned champions by the special grace of God. Remember, those who have achieved it are human beings just like you,” Babayaro encouraged.

He also urged the Flamingos to overcome Liberia and pursue victory in the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as a tribute to the grieving Babangida, who recently lost his younger brother Ibrahim Babangida and son in a tragic accident.

“I am a world champion. We conquered the world. It is possible when you believe,” Babayaro continued, sharing his personal experience to inspire the young players.

“The best thing you can do for Babangida is to give your all. This country, if they love you, they love you forever, but if you make a tiny mistake, they will be quick to criticize. Nigeria does not forget. When you are playing for Nigeria, you need full concentration 24 hours,” he concluded.

The winner of the two-legged tie between Nigeria and Liberia this month will secure a spot in the World Cup. Babayaro’s words aim to bolster the team’s morale and focus as they approach this significant challenge.