Falconets goalkeeper dropped after 6-0 loss to Japan
2 min read
Emmanuel Emenike of Nigeria during the Orange Africa Cup of Nations, South Africa 2013 Semifinal football match between Mali and Nigeria at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa on 6 February 2013 ©Chris Ricco/Backpagepix
The Head Coach of the Nigeria U-20 Women’s team, Peter Dedevbo, has opted to make some changes to the Falconets starting lineup for Wednesday’s World Cup clash with Canada in Port Moresby. As reflected in a press statement from the Nigeria Football Federation, the coach plans to make three changes for the Canada game.
One big ‘casualty’ is goalkeeper captain, Sandra Chiichii, who will be watching from the bench as Sweden -based Christy Ohiaeriaku takes up the gloves in place of the hitherto first choice keeper. Chiichii is to be ‘rested’ while midfielder Ihuoma Onyebuchi, who came in for Patience Kalu against Japan, will get a starting role.
Midfielder Joy Bokiri who sat out the opening match, completes the changes expected in the squad. Other players including Ugochi Emenayo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Yetunde Adeboyejo and Chinaza Uchendu retained their starting places in the team. Reigning world vice champions Nigeria got off on a worrying note after succumbing to a 6-0 bashing from Japan and now need to be up and doing against the Canadians if they are to stay in contention in the ongoing FIFA tournament.
Meanwhile, Coach Dedevbo has reassured that the changes will pay off positively, insisting that the adjustment is geared towards getting the points to keep hope alive in the tournament. “The focus right now is on how to pick the maximum points against Canada.
The line-up for tomorrow will change and most of the mistakes of the first game have been corrected. I remain optimistic that we will do a good job.” The team took time off from training Tuesday evening to study the video clips of the game between Canada and Spain, which ended in a 5-0 win for the Spaniards.
