Precious Chiemerie Oscar has called on Nigerians to stand by the Flamingos after Nigeria’s U-17 women opened their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign in Morocco with a 2-1 loss to Poland.

Key takeaways

• Nigeria were beaten by Poland in their first group-stage fixture in Morocco.
• Oscar believes the Flamingos can respond positively after regrouping for their next match.
• The team meet Puerto Rico today and defending champions Korea DPR on Friday.
• Nigeria are pursuing a first U-17 Women’s World Cup crown after winning bronze in 2022.
• Oscar plays for Edo Queens in the Nigeria Women Football League and has featured for Nigeria at U-17 and U-20 level.

Oscar calls for belief after Poland setback

The Nigerian forward admitted the players were frustrated by the result against Poland, but said the squad would reorganise and aim to deliver a stronger showing in their next outing.

“Every one of us went out there intending to play well and win, but it did not happen the way we wanted,” Oscar said. “We will return, get ourselves organised and, hopefully, come back stronger in the next game.”

She stressed the importance of togetherness and improved organisation within the squad, while asking supporters across Nigeria to retain faith in the team.

“Everyone should continue to support us and never give up on us, because we are going to make them proud,” she added.

Crucial group matches ahead

The Flamingos are due to play Puerto Rico today before facing title holders Korea DPR on Friday, with both matches central to Nigeria’s attempt to recover from the Poland defeat and improve their standing in the group.

Nigeria are still chasing their maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy. The Flamingos came closest in 2022, when they ended the tournament in third place and secured the bronze medal.

Oscar is regarded as one of the country’s rising women’s football prospects. She operates as a forward and winger for Edo Queens in the Nigeria Women Football League.

She has represented Nigeria with both the Flamingos at U-17 level and the Falconets in the U-20 age group. Her youth international experience includes the WAFU B Girls Cup as well as Nigeria’s qualifying campaigns for youth World Cups.