Peter Dedevbo, Head Coach of the Flamingoes, has again tasked his players to imbibe hard work as the team intensifies training ahead of the upcoming match against She-polopolo of Zambia next weekend.
Nigeria, with 2-1 first leg advantage, is set to ride on the back of Zambia for the African FIFA U-17 World Cup in Azerbaijan later this year.
According to Grace Akujobi, the spokesman of the team, all the 24 players in camp are responding positively to all forms of training from the technical crew, including conditioning used to test the fitness level of the girls.
The coaches used the conditioning exercise to help the girls have proper balance in their upper body and muscles.
“Conditioning is a good form of training as it helps the players tone up their muscles, heart and upper body. Every player must undergo conditioning if she wants to withstand physical play from the opponent,” Coach Christopher said.
After today’s training, Flamingoes players and officials were on hand to watch national under 20 women’s team, Falconets, engage a boys team in a friendly match.
The essence of watching the friendly match, according to the technical crew, is for the girls to see first hand how a player in their playing position plays and be able to correct and improve herself.
Training continues in Abuja before the team departs next week to Abeokuta for the match.
It would be recalled that Flamingoes have a 2-1 goal lead from the first leg played in Lusaka, a fortnight ago.
The players in camp are Andy Gift, Lucky Amos, Iheoma Goodluck, Aidelomon Victoria Ikawo, Ayinde Halimatu Ibrahim, Idike Jiroro, Ofoegbu Oluchi, Perpetua Nnodim Sarah, Edeji Chidinma, Biahwo Tessy Kesiena, Okaeme Patience and Bokiri Joy.
Others are Ebineneme,Onyebuchi Ihuoma Goodness,Alimba Chioma,Effiom Mabel Micheal, Okoye Ebere Deborah, Chichi Sandra Nguyum, Ajuyah Jennifer,Ijeh Eluemunor Desire,Onuegbu Ihuoma, Abdullahi Hauwa, Adeboyejo Yetunde, Obeni Rita, Ugochi Emenayo and Uchenna Kanu.