Nigeria’s U17 women national team has commenced intensive preparation ahead of next month’s FIFA World Cup qualifying clash against Namibia or Botswana.
Bala Nkiyu’s ladies who reported to camp on Thursday kicked off full training activities for the fixture against the Baby Gladiators or female Zebras the following day.
Last Sunday, the Namibians defeated their hosts Botswana 2–1 in the first leg played in Gaberone and the second leg is slated for December 13 at the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek, the winner meets Nigeria’s Flamingoes.
It was learnt that only 19 of 30 players invited by coach Bala Nkiyu resumed camp on Thursday evening at the Serob Legacy Hotel, Wuye, Abuja with few others joining the squad on Friday.
Nkiyu wasted no time starting work, supervising two training sessions in the morning and afternoon at the Fifa Goal Project pitch in Abuja.
Among top players who had resumed and took part in the training are Precious Edewor of Osun Queens, Rivers Angels’ Cynthia Aku, Bayelsa Queens’ Rafiat Sule and former Flamingoes star Rasheedat Ajibade of FC Robo.
Nigeria will hosts the winner between Namibia/Bostwana tie for the first leg of the first round in Abuja between 8–10 January and the return leg will take place two weeks later.
Meanwhile, the head coach of the Flamingoes, Bala Nkiyu has lauded the NFF for the opportunity to led the Nigeria U17 ladies again and promises to better his last outing in Costa Rica.
He said the team’s preparation had started as they hope to get ready for the first round match early next year.
“We have resumed training immediately because we have no time on our side and we will be screening players in batches,” Nkiyu said.
“I’m grateful to the NFF for giving me this wonderful chance to coach the team. I will do my best not to disappoint Nigerians this time,” he assured.
