‘This Is A Turnaround For Africa,’ Says Flamingos Head Coach Akeem Busari

Flamingos head coach Akeem Busari believes Nigeria’s historic triumph represents a major turning point for African women’s youth football, sending a strong message that the continent can compete for the highest honours on the global stage.

Busari’s tactical adjustments and willingness to reward players who demonstrated the right attitude and commitment proved decisive during Nigeria’s remarkable campaign.

His decision to bring Bashiru into the starting line-up against Brazil paid off spectacularly, as the forward scored twice in the semi-final before again finding the net in the final against Japan.

However, Busari insisted that his selection decisions were based on character, mentality and merit rather than any coaching masterstroke.

“No matter how good you are, I’m a coach that plays on character,” he said.

“It’s all about mindset, attitude and merit; if they’re there, you get your playing time. If they’re not there, you’re waiting to come in. As a coach, we want everyone to wire up and play together.”

The Nigerian coach believes the title will inspire greater ambition across African football, particularly at youth level, where the continent is increasingly capable of challenging established powers.

“This is a turnaround for Africa. In terms of youth-age football, it’s improving and here we could really come and compete,” Busari said.

“Being a champion is going to go a long way to really motivate us, and we are sending a signal, a message to the world that Africa is really coming.”