Shaibu Backs Flamingos’ World Cup Mission, Urges One Game at a Time
National Institute for Sports (NIS) Director-General Philip Shaibu has urged Nigeria’s Flamingos to remain focused on their quest for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title, insisting that they must take one game at a time.
Shaibu gave the charge after Nigeria defeated Mexico 2-1 in the round of 16 to advance to the quarter-finals of the ongoing tournament in Morocco.
The former professional footballer congratulated the team on their progress but warned that their victories so far were steps towards their ultimate objective of becoming world champions.
He said the team’s performances reflected a disciplined approach to each match, pointing to their 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea in their final group game as evidence of their growing confidence and tactical maturity.
The Flamingos maintained that momentum against Mexico, overcoming the North Americans to secure a place in the last eight.
Shaibu noted that Nigeria needed to win seven matches to lift the trophy and had successfully completed four, with the quarter-final representing the fifth step towards their target.
He urged the players to maintain their concentration and avoid distractions as they prepare for the next challenge.
The NIS director-general also reminded the team that President Bola Tinubu had prioritised their welfare, adding that millions of Nigerians were following their campaign and praying for their success.
Shaibu expressed confidence in the team’s ability to achieve their ambition if they remained committed to their game plan and approached every match with the same determination.
