The Falconets of Nigeria returned to Bogota on Wednesday, where they will face Japan in the second round of the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup on Friday.
Nigeria started the competition with a 1-0 win over South Korea before suffering a 3-1 loss to Germany in the second match, they however spanked Venezuela 4-0 in their last group match to finish second behind Germany.
Japan, one of the strongest forces in women’s football globally, topped Group E that also included Austria, New Zealand and one of Africa’s flag-bearers Ghana.
Ghana crashed out of the tournament after losing to Japan and Austria, and a narrow win over New Zealand.
Falconets coach, Christopher Danjuma has showered encomiums on the players for working hard to reach the knockout stages.
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He said, “The girls have worked very hard to get to this stage, and we are proud of their efforts. We will be taking the knockout stages one match at a time. I must tell you that we are excited at the prospects of facing Japan and what that brings forth.”
The clash between Nigeria and Japan will hold at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota – where the Falconets played their first two group phase matches against Korea Republic and Germany.
The two teams have met four times at this level, with Japan winning twice, Nigeria with one win and the other encounter ending in a draw.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
