Nigeria’s National Female Football team campaigning for laurels in this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup holding in Australia and New Zealand have been urged to strive to win their July 21 opening game in Melbourne.This is in the bid to top the Group B table and go all the way to the finals of the Championship.
Speaking to the players and officials of the team after a friendly encounter with a local female side,Lions FC of Gold Coast, Brisbane,in which the Nigerian side trounced their hosts 8-1,Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Australia and the Pacific Region,Amb.Anderson N.Madubike, commended the African Champions for their skills,energy and the knack to achieve results.
He again challenged the team to offer their best efforts at ensuring that they avoid distractions and maintain the winning streak that has continued to attract them acclaim and support across the globe.
The Nigerian diplomat,who spoke over the telephone, Saturday morning from Brisbane, said:
“From what I have seen here today,I am excited.I am happy.As I watched them play,I can tell you that these ladies are prepared to do Nigeria and Africa proud.They are, indeed,ready for this Championship.”Stories have it that this local female football team,the Lions FC of Gold Coast,have never been beaten on their home ground.But this morning I witnessed the practice-match that was quite entertaining and packed with action as the Super Falcons trounced them 8-1! So,I am excited.I know our players are sharp and are merely waiting for the real action.”
Amb.Madubike,who informed that the Super Falcons would be hosted to a welcoming reception by the Government of Queensland on Sunday in capital Brisbane, said he would be present at the event initiated by the Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sports as a way to demonstrate love and support for the Nigerian team. He prayed for victory for the team and for the career advancement of its members. He also prayed for the speedy recovery for any member of the team that is down with injuries,while also stressing the need for continuous focus by the players all through the Championship.
Camped at Gold Coast, Brisbane,the Super Falcons are expected to commence their quest for laurels on July 21 when they go up against one of the tournament’s favourites,Canada,in their first match at the Championship scheduled for Melbourne. This is the 9th appearance of the Nigerian female side and African Champions since the inception of the Championship in 1991.