By Kate Obodo, Japan
National Women’s teams’ Coordinator, Aisha Falode, has attributed the valiant performance so far of the Falconets at the ongoing U20 Women’s World Cup in Japan, to the visionary leadership of the NFF leadership and by extension that of Sports Minister, Bolaji Abdulahi and President Goodluck Jonathan.

Falode, who spoke from Kobe, Japan after the Nigerian lasses whipped Italy 4-0, to advance to the quarter finals of the tourney, said weeks of serious preparation in Korea and timely support of the Aminu Maigari NFF board, has been the tonic behind the girls’ splendid performance so far.

“I want to thank President Goodluck Jonathan, Alhaji Aminu Maigari and his entire executive committee members, the coaching crew and all well meaning Nigerians who have been supporting the team through prayers and goodwill messages. What I can assure them is that the tournament is now separating the women from the girls and at this juncture we will not let Nigerians down”, she declared.

She noted that now that Nigeria is the only hope that Africa has in the tournament the Nigerian girls will go all the way and ensure that they win the tournament after emerging runners up at the last edition behind host and current champions; Germany. “We will give it our all to ensure that we come out tops and wipe away the tears of many Nigerian sports lovers who were not too happy at recent developments in our sports sector, but we seek steady support from all and sundry”.