Five Under-17 Flamingos Who Could Become Great Footballers

Nigeria’s U-17 Flamingos delivered an impressive performance in the just concluded FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in India which has left Nigerians beating their chest for a bright future in Nigeria’s female football.

One of the few shining moments in a largely disastrous year for Nigerian women’s football was the impressive performance of Nigeria’s under-17 girls.

Naija News recalls that luck has not been on the Super Falcon’s side as they failed to lift their tenth African Cup of Nations title after losing to Morocco in a 5-4 penalty shootout after a 1-1 hard-fought 90 minutes.

Prior to their shambolic display, the nine-time Africa champions also failed to qualify for the rescheduled 2021 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.

Naija News highlights a few Flamingos players who have demonstrated they have what it takes to thrive and compete at the highest level in the upcoming years.

Opeyemi Ajakaye (Forward):

In the recently concluded U-17 world cup, Opeyemi Ajakaye, who the football community has dubbed the “new Asisat Oshoala” due to her attacking threat, won three player of the match awards. After her impressive performance, the 16-year-old is without a doubt going places in the football world and for her country.

Taiwo Afolabi (Midfielder):

Everyone should keep a close eye on Afolabi’s control of the midfield as she is one of the tournament’s breakout stars and her stunning goal against New Zealand was a contender for the goal of the tournament. The youngster, if followed by the right development project, has what it takes to establish herself as the Falcons’ main midfielder.

Miracle Usani (Defender):

Usani is a player who deserves close attention after having a strong performance in India. She was tasked with marking the American forward Onyeka Gorero, who is of Nigerian descent, and she did a fantastic job with it.

Faith Omilana (Goalkeeper):

Chiamaka Nnadozie will likely remain the Falcons’ starting goalkeeper, but Omilana is a player to keep an eye on after making some crucial saves during the tournament’s match against the USA. The youngster will undoubtedly give Nigerian managers something to consider as she develops.

Omowunmi Bello (Forward):

Bello’s presence was a nightmare for rival teams at the U-17 women’s world cup, and will soon rise to the top. The Flamingos’ attacking plays always included the forward, who has become one of India’s biggest surprises.