By Francis Ajuonuma
Ahead of next month’s 2022 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifying matches against the Democratic Republic of Congo, head coach of the national team (Flamingos), Bankole Olowookere has called up 35 players to the camp to commence preparation in Abuja.
Headlining the list of invited players is top striker, Onyinyechi Kalu of Imo Angels alongside Christiana Uzoma, Faith Omilana, Jessica Inyama, Odinaka Nweke, Sharon Onwere, Loveth Boigyande, Vera Samuel, Comfort Folorunsho, Blessing Sunday, Mistura Yusuf, Tumininu Adesina, Sandra John, Olamide Oyinlola, Imoh Jones, Obianuju Akwubo and Joy Igbokwe.
The Flamingos actually started a qualifying campaign for the championship two years ago, defeating their Guinean counterparts home and away, before the global coronavirus pandemic compelled world football –governing body, FIFA to jettison the process and forget the 2020 competition altogether.
However, just like it has done with the U20 Women’s World Cup, FIFA has retained the designated host nation for the 2020 event, India as host for the 2022 finals. The championship will hold 11th-30th October.
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The Flamingos will start their campaign for this year’s finals when they play away to the U17 girls of DR Congo in Kinshasa on 6th March 2022. The return leg is scheduled for the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Saturday, 19th March.
Other invited players are; Taiwo Aseere, Mary Popoola, Aminat Folorunsho, Blessing Solomon, Taiwo Afolabi, Cynthia Mega, Miracle Usani Ola, Priscilla Omeje, Precious Daniel, Alvine Dah-Zossu, Halimat Yusuf, Chidera Okenwa, Mercy Itimi, Aminat Bello, Kafayat Mafisere, Raheemot Adebayo and Kesiena Ojiyoiwi
All invited players have been advised to report to the Chida Hotel, Abuja on Monday, 7th February.
