Samuel Eto’o motivates Nigeria’s U17 girls ahead of World Cup Qualifier in South Africa

By Dayo Awoniyi

Nigeria’s U17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, have arrived in Pretoria, South Africa, ahead of their crucial 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup second-round qualifier against South Africa’s Bantwana.

The Flamingos touched down at OR Tambo International Airport early Thursday morning, where they were greeted with an unexpected visit from football icon Samuel Eto’o Fils.

Eto’o, a four-time African Player of the Year and the all-time top scorer of the Africa Cup of Nations, delivered an inspiring message to the young players.

“You have the talent, the passion, and the determination,” Eto’o told the team.

“Go out there and make your country proud. Believe in yourselves, and never give up on your dreams.”

Eto’o also took the time to pose for photographs with the team, including delegation leader Timothy Magaji, NFF Director of Competitions Ruth David, head coach Bankole Olowookere, and Amina Daura, the Head of Women’s Football.

The match is scheduled for Saturday, March 8, 2025. The Flamingos will play the first leg of their World Cup qualifier against Bantwana on Saturday, with the return leg scheduled for March 15, 2025, in Nigeria.