Canada 2014: Peter Dedevbo shortlists 25 Falconets for U20 World Cup
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Falconets head coach, Peter Dedevbo has said the players selected are capable of representing the country, after announcing 25 players for the team’s 24-day final camping programme in Canada ahead of ahead of this year’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals taking place in the same country.
“Most of them played the qualifiers that gave Nigeria the world cup ticket. I brought in few from U-17 women’s team and from other female clubs to ensure more competition for shirts and also have a look at other players”.
“I must tell you the selection was not easy, but i had to pick those who will give the country a better representation,” Dedevbo stated.
In addressing, the players dropped Coach Dedevbo thanked them for their contribution and wished them well ahead.
“You see every one of you are capable of representing the country, I like to appreciate your contribution to the team, you are good but its unfortunate not everyone will go with us. I wish you the best and hope that when the country calls you again you will honour future invitation to the team,” he concluded.
In earlier preparatory programmes for the world cup, the Falconets have played four friendlies against Ghana U-20 women team in which the Nigerian side won two matches, drew 1 and lost one. The Nigerian ladies also played with Sunshine Queens of Akure, State House Queens and Idoh Academy Abuja among others.
On the road to Canada, the Falconets defeated Sierra Leone 16-0, Tunisia 8-0, and South Africa 7-0 to pick one of the two tickets from Africa to represent the Continent in the World Cup.
Sunday Uchechi emerged the top goal scorer with 10 goals, Okaeme Patience got 5, Ayinde Halima 5, Adeboyejo Yetunde 4, Edeji Chidinma 3, Eyebhoria Winifred 2, Oshoala Asisat and Okoye Ebere both scored one goal each. First choice goal keeper, Chiichii Sandra kept a clean sheet through out the qualifiers.
Nigeria have been drawn in group C alongside Korea Republic, England and Mexico at the tournament.