Head Coach Bankole Olowookere has finalized his roster, selecting a powerful squad of 21 players, including key names like attacking midfielder Shakirat Moshood, goalkeeper Sylvia Echefu, defender Jumai Adebayo, and forward Queen Joseph, to represent Nigeria at the upcoming FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals in Morocco.
The announcement confirms the 21-strong contingent, affectionately known as the Flamingos, who will aim to make a significant impact on the global stage. The team is built on a blend of experienced youth talent from the domestic leagues and emerging stars from local academies.
Star Players Highlight the Squad
The inclusion of the quartet highlighted by Coach Olowookere signals their crucial roles in the team's tactics and ambition.
Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens) is expected to be the engine room of the midfield. Her selection underscores her reputation as an attacking talent capable of dictating play and providing creative sparks from the center of the park. She is joined in midfield by Muinat Rotimi and Waliat Rotimi from Nakamura Football Academy, providing depth and dynamism.
Between the sticks, Sylvia Echefu (Bayelsa Queens) has secured a coveted goalkeeper spot alongside Elizabeth Boniface (Abia Angels) and Onyinyechi Opara (Imo Strikers). Echefu’s strong performances have earned her the nod, and she will be tasked with anchoring the defense against the world’s best youth teams.
The defense will be anchored by Jumai Adebayo (Rivers Angels), a reliable figure who brings crucial stability to the back line. She is joined by other formidable defenders like Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies) and Azeezat Oduntan (FC Robo).
Up front, the spotlight falls on Queen Joseph (Fosla Academy). Her goal-scoring prowess and speed will be vital for the Flamingos' attack. She is part of a forward line that also features Kaosarat Olanrewaju (Ayishat Yusuf Academy, Lagos) and the Imo Strikers' Precious Nwachukwu.
The Full Contingent
The final 21-player list shows a strong representation across various positions:
Goalkeepers: Elizabeth Boniface (Abia Angels); Onyinyechi Opara (Imo Strikers); Sylvia Echefu (Bayelsa Queens)
Defenders: Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies); Jumai Adebayo (Rivers Angels); Azeezat Oduntan (FC Robo); Christiana Sunday (Imo Strikers); Nofisat Tijani (Youthful Talent 99); Fatimoh Shuaib (Nasarawa Amazons)
Midfielders: Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens); Muinat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy); Shavih Istifanus (Youth Arise Academy); Zainab Raji (Dannaz FC); Waliat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy); Ayomide Abubakar (Onimarg FC)
Forwards: Kaosarat Olanrewaju (Ayishat Yusuf Academy, Lagos); Mariam Yahaya (FC Robo); Queen Joseph (Fosla Academy); Tabitha Terlumu (Braavos, Edo); Precious Nwachukwu (Imo Strikers); Chisom Nwachukwu (Rivers Angels)
The team is set to depart for Morocco as they finalize preparations for the tournament.
The Flamingos have a history of competitive performances in the U-17 Women's World Cup and will be looking to surpass their previous best performance by making a deep run in the knockout stages.
The nation holds high hopes for this talented squad to fly Nigeria’s flag with distinction.
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