A cross-section of Abuja-based football coaches have urged the Nigeria Women’s National Under-20 football team, Falconets, to go for a win against Japan.

The Falconets will take on Japan in the round of 16 at the 2024 FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup at Estadio Metropolitana de Techo, Bogota, Colombia, on Friday at 2pm.

The coaches, who made the call in separate interviews on Tuesday in Abuja, said the match was crucial to Nigeria.

One of the coaches, Emmanuel Amos, said the team has the talent, drive and passion to succeed.

He urged them to ensure that the defence was solid and adopt a more physical style to neutralise the Japanese’s speed and agility.

Mr Amos said that the Falconets would need to be technical and creative to break down the Japanese defence.

“They may also need to rely more on their midfield play, utilising their wingers and central midfielders to create scoring opportunities to win. The Japanese will likely try to absorb the pressure and then use a counter-attack, so the Falconets must remain disciplined and organised at the back to avoid conceding goals. It will be a tactical battle, where both teams will try to outdo each other. However, the Falconets have shown they can adapt and overcome challenges in competitive matches,” he said.

Also, Loveth Ekeoba, acknowledged that the match would be tough because Japan is a strong team, adding that the Falconets have shown that they are equal to the challenge.

She said, “They will need to bring their A-game; stay focused, and use their skills and strategy to out play their opponents. Japan is known for their discipline and technique, which serves them well in high-pressure situations like penalty shootouts. If the game goes into penalties, it could be more challenging for the Falconets. If the Falconets can secure a win in regular time, they can avoid the unpredictability of penalties and confidently advance to the next round.’’

Also, Arinzechi Nwaogwu, said that the Falconets needed to be at their best, capitalise on their chances and minimise mistakes and dominate possession, create scoring opportunities and defend solidly.

“If they can do that, they will be in a strong position to win the match in regular time,” he said.

On her part, Abiodun Olutoye, urged the Falconets to be strategic and adaptable, using their strengths to exploit Japan’s weaknesses.

She said, “Catching Japan off guard with quick counter-attacks could lead to victory. I believe the Falconets are ready for the challenge, as they have shown their resilience and determination, especially in their match against Venezuela.”

Also, Muhammed Mohammed expressed confidence in the potential matchup between the Falconets and Japan. Two talented teams with different styles and strengths will be going head-to-head in a high-stake competition. The Falconets have the confidence and momentum to see it through, but they must be well-prepared, focused and adaptable. The Falconets’ speed and agility against Japan’s technical skill and strategy make it a thrilling prospect,” he said.

The Falconets won two matches and lost one in the group stage to advance to the round of 16, while Japan won three of their group-stage matches.

(NAN)