U17 WWC: Hakeem Busari Disclose How Flamingos Suffocated Brazil
By Saheed Afolabi
Nigeria U17 women’s national team coach, Hakeem Busari has unveiled how his side denied Brazil usage of the ball in the semifinal of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The Nigerian youngsters booked their place in the final after producing an impressive 3-0 victory over Brazil in Wednesday’s semifinal encounter in Sale.
Queen Joseph opened the scoring in the 56th minute before Awawu Bashiru took second-half brace in the 71st and 80th minutes sealed an emphatic victory for Nigeria.
Reacting to the triumph, Busari expressed delight at the team’s achievement, describing their progression to the final as a significant moment for Nigerian football.
“It’s an awesome thing, it’s a great achievement. Reaching the final is a plus for our country, it’s a plus for our football. We are happy, the class are happy,” he said.
The Nigerian coach acknowledged the technical quality of the Brazilian side but praised his players for their discipline, bravery and determination in executing the team’s tactical approach.
According to Busari, restricting Brazil’s passing options was central to Nigeria’s strategy, with the Flamingos showing the character required to overcome a difficult opponent.
“It was a key contest and it wasn’t an easy one. Brazil really showed the stuff they have technically, but we tried to really block the view of their passing line, so we had to show character. We played really, really bravely.”
Busari also credited the players for their response to the technical crew’s instructions, noting that the team had focused on encouraging the young footballers and preparing them for the challenge of reaching the final.
“We appreciate the girls because they are young, we could only encourage them and tell them what they need to do to make the final.”
While celebrating the historic qualification, Busari insisted that lifting the trophy remains the team’s ultimate ambition.
“I’m excited and I’m happy and the girls were happy, but we just really want to pick up the trophy. That would be the icing on the cake.”
With a place in the championship match secured, the Flamingos are now just one victory away from claiming Nigeria’s first FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup title against Japan on Sunday, November 8.
