2025 Fifa U17 WWC: Three key tactical decisions Flamingos coach should make before France game

Nigeria U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, will need to make key tactical adjustments ahead of their crucial group-stage match against France on Wednesday, 

Following a 4–1 defeat to Canada in their opening match of the Fifa U17 Women's World Cup, three key tactical adjustments have emerged as essential for the Nigerian side.

Firstly, defensive cohesion will be paramount. The Flamingos conceded four goals against Canada, with the visitors exploiting spaces in the second half, particularly through substitutes Melisa Kekić and Julia Amireh. 

Head coach Bankole Olowookere may need to tighten defensive organization, ensuring Elizabeth Boniface in goal receives more protection from her backline of Azeezat Oduntan, Hannah Ibrahim, Jumai Adebayo, and Nofisat Tijani.

Secondly, attacking efficiency requires improvement. Nigeria created 17 chances, with six on target, yet only Queen Joseph’s 30th-minute strike found the net. 

Olowookere will need to focus on converting opportunities in the final third, possibly adjusting the roles of forwards Queen Joseph, Chisom Nwachukwu, and Kaosarat Olanrewaju to maximize scoring chances against a strong French defense.

Finally, strategic substitutions and game management could be decisive. 

Against Canada, second-half substitutions Mariam Yahaya, Nguemo Terlumun, and Fatimoh Shuaib were introduced too late to alter the outcome significantly. 

Olowookere may consider earlier, more tactical changes to influence momentum and maintain intensity throughout the match.

The Flamingos currently sit at the bottom of Group D after Sunday’s results, with Canada leading on goal difference and France having defeated Samoa 4–2. 

Nigeria will be hoping for a strong response against France to remain in contention for progression from the group stage.

The Flamingos face France in their next group game on Wednesday, with all eyes on whether Olowookere’s adjustments can spark a turnaround.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: Super Falcons Show

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