U17 World World Cup: Naira rains as Augustine Eguavoen visits Flamingos camp

By: Monsurah Olatunji

NFF Technical Director and acting Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria U17 women’s national team as they returned home from the Dominican Republic, where they competed in the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.

The Flamingos had an impressive group stage, winning all three matches: a 4-1 victory against New Zealand, a 4-0 win over Ecuador, and a 1-0 triumph against the host nation, the Dominican Republic.

Despite their undefeated run, the team faced a setback in the quarterfinals, losing 2-0 to the USA—who had previously finished second in their group behind Spain.

This defeat was particularly poignant, as the Flamingos had triumphed over the USA in the previous edition of the tournament via a penalty shootout, ultimately finishing third and taking home the bronze medal.

Upon their return, Eguavoen visited the team’s camp on Thursday, offering words of encouragement for their future. “I know we are all disappointed with the result, but that is not the end of the world,” he stated.

“We all believed in you and still do. Some of you are still eligible, as the tournament is now annual. We’ve seen potential in you, and we will not just discard it but nurture it.”

Eguavoen reminded the players of the many opportunities ahead, urging them not to be too hard on themselves. “Heads up, and keep improving. Take your education seriously, too, and stay happy.”

While he acknowledged the current economic challenges, he expressed his pride in the team’s achievements and pledged a small token of goodwill as a personal gesture of support.

“I know the economy is tough right now and it’s affecting everything, but from my goodwill, I will give you something. It might be small, but this is my way of telling you that I am personally proud of you all.”