Hon. Frank Ilaboya, Special Adviser on Grassroots Sports Mobilisation to Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s Flamingos ahead of their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup semi-final clash against Brazil, declaring that the South Americans can be defeated.
Ilaboya joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating the Flamingos following their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Venezuela in the quarter-finals of the competition in Morocco, a result that secured Nigeria’s place in the last four.
The former Edo State Football Association chairman said the team’s impressive performances have further demonstrated the importance of identifying and nurturing young football talents at the grassroots, particularly among girls.
He stressed that grassroots sports development in Edo State must give equal attention to the girl child, noting that early engagement in organised sporting activities would provide young girls with opportunities to develop their talents and stay away from negative social influences.
Ilaboya also commended Governor Okpebholo for establishing a dedicated department for grassroots sports development, describing the initiative as an opportunity to rebuild the state’s reputation in age-grade competitions.
According to him, his responsibility is to take grassroots talent identification to every part of Edo State and discover young athletes capable of representing the state and Nigeria at the highest levels.
“This opportunity created by His Excellency for the grassroots sports department must be fully extended to the girl child by engaging them early through constructive sports activities,” Ilaboya said.
“We are putting together a comprehensive programme that will bring Edo State back to her dominance in age-grade tournaments.”
The Flamingos have enjoyed an impressive campaign in Morocco, highlighted by their 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea during the group stage before overcoming Venezuela to book their semi-final ticket.
With Brazil now standing between Nigeria and a place in the final, Ilaboya believes the Nigerian youngsters have demonstrated the character, resilience and determination required to overcome another major challenge.
“With what we have seen of these girls so far, defeating Brazil is not impossible. These young girls have exhibited strong character, resilience and great determination, and these are the ingredients of champions.
“This is why I am confident of victory over the Samba Girls come Wednesday. If they put up the same scintillating performance displayed against the defending champions, North Korea, who they brushed aside 3-1, I can see Brazil falling,” he added.
The Flamingos will now look to carry their impressive form into Wednesday’s semi-final as they pursue a place in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final.
