Nigeria’s Ambassador to Poland, Chioma Ohakim, has boosted the morale of Nigeria’s U-20 Women’s National Team, the Falconets, ahead of their crucial second Group F match against China at the ongoing 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.
According to the Director of Media and Communications of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ademola Olajire, on Wednesday in Abuja, “Ohakim remained supportive of the team and encouraged the players and technical crew not to be discouraged by the result in spite of Nigeria’s 0-2 defeat to Spain in their opening match of the competition on Monday.
“Ohakim watched the match at the Stadion Sosnowiec and, alongside staff of the Nigerian Mission, offered her support and encouragement to the team.
“After the match, Ohakim interacted with the players and technical crew, urging the girls to put the defeat behind them and remain focused on their next challenge against China on Thursday,” he said.
She reminded the team that they had played good football and had every reason to remain confident ahead of the crucial encounter in the second group match.
In a thoughtful gesture, the envoy also brought Nigerian food for the players, helping to lift their spirits and giving them a taste of home while away in Poland.
The ambassador’s presence and words of encouragement provided a timely morale boost as the Falconets turned their attention to the crucial clash with China.
The two-time silver medallists will return to the Stadion Sosnowiec on Thursday evening to take on China in a match that is crucial to their campaign.
The Chinese girls are highly motivated after a 5-0 victory over New Caledonia in their opening match, a result that placed them at the top of Group F, ahead of 2022 champions Spain on goal difference.
Coach Moses Aduku said that the team had put the defeat to Spain behind it and was now fully focused on the encounter with China.
“We have put the match against Spain behind us and are focusing totally on the clash with China. The players are ready to come out stronger for the match against China,” he said.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
