FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup: Flamingos name Starting XI for opener against New Zealand

The Flamingos of Nigeria have announced their starting XI for their opening match against New Zealand at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

Nigeria Starting XI vs New Zealand:

• Goalkeeper: C. Uzoma
• Defenders: K. Adegoke, H. Ibrahim, J. Adebayo, O. Eke
• Midfielders: F. Abdulwahab, S. Moshood, T. Afolabi
• Forwards: C. Chidi, P. Effiong, A. Animashaun
• Head Coach: Bankole Olowookere

Harmony Chidi Confident of Victory

Ahead of the clash, Harmony Chidi, one of Nigeria’s key attackers who plays for Heartland Strikers Ladies in Owerri, dismissed concerns about the threat posed by New Zealand and the other group opponents.

“These three teams in our group are humans like us,” Chidi said in an interview with FIFA Media. “I don’t believe any of them is a threat. No matter the team, we are beating them.”

Chidi emphasised the Flamingos’ determination to make a strong statement at the tournament.
“We want to prove a point, and we want to make it count for our coach. All we are thinking about is defeating our group opponents,” she added.

New Zealand Coach Gunn Expects Tough Test

On the other hand, New Zealand head coach Alana Gunn expressed confidence in her squad and drew inspiration from the country’s previous successes in the competition.

“It is going to be a privilege to lead the team at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and I’m really pleased with the squad we’ve assembled after a competitive selection process,” Gunn said.

She noted that many of the current squad members had competed at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship last month, providing them with good preparation.

“We know New Zealand have done great things at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the past, and we want this generation to take inspiration from that success as we proudly represent the country,” she added.