Super Falcons forward Folashade Ijamilusi and midfielder Jennifer Echegini have reflected on the pride attached to playing for Nigeria, while stressing the demands and responsibility that come with representing the national team.

Ijamilusi seizes her opportunity

Ijamilusi was introduced after her teammate and Super Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, suffered an injury. The forward expressed gratitude to the coaching crew for trusting her with the opportunity.

• She entered the match in place of injured captain Ajibade.
• Her contribution from the substitutes’ bench included an assist.
• Ijamilusi said the assist fulfilled both an individual ambition and a tactical objective for the side.

Echegini on the meaning of Nigeria duty

Echegini shared Ijamilusi’s view, explaining that representing Nigeria carries a different level of significance from playing for a club.

The midfielder has already appeared on major international stages, including the Olympic Games and the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and has also won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, known as WAFCON. Yet she insisted that her hunger to achieve more remains as strong as ever.

Ambition remains high

“I want everything more — times 10 everything,” Echegini said, underlining her determination to make the most of her football career.

She added that she wants to be able to reflect in five to 10 years’ time with a sense of fulfilment, knowing she gave everything possible and without regretting that she might have worked harder or contributed more.