FIFA U-20 WWC: Go For Gold.... NFF President, Amb. Chris Giwa Charges Falconets

By VICTOR IROELE President of Nigeria Football Federation, Amb. Chris Giwa has charged the National Under-20 female team, the Falconets to exhibit the spirit of patriotism, discipline and sportsmanship as they open their campaign at the FIFA Under-20 women World Cup in France. The Falconets open their group account today at 12.30pm Nigerian time against former world champions, Germany at Saint Malo in what promises to be a very tough game for both teams.  NFF President stated : " You are out there as our Ambassadors and we expect nothing but the best from you. His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR and the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung send their felicitations to you."  "We believe in you and trust your ability to fly the flag of the country honorably in the spirit of sportsmanship. We expect nothing but compete clean and fair because we believe in dignity of our nation" Amb. Giwa stated.  He further averred : "Be focused on the games while on our part all that is due you will be taken care of. Like I told you, allowances and match bonuses for all age group teams have been restored and we will ensure you get all your entitlements"  "If you recall, the Honorable Minister of Sports, was not happy when he visited the team at your Austria camp over unpaid allowances and some of the issues he highlighted will be addressed in no time. As a father, I will make sure you do not suffer any neglect during this championships and beyond, " Amb. Giwa further posited.  In his own message, the Acting General Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme enjoined the team to live aboard board while assuring them of all necessary support to excel at the championships.  " You are a shinning light and great Ambassadors in whom we are well pleased. I have followed your performances from the qualifiers to where you are today, and have no doubt that you will make us proud." Dr Ikpeme opined.  The Falconets will take on Haiti in the second group D game on Thursday and the last match on Monday, August 13th against China.  The national Under-20 female team have had heartwarming performances at this championships in 2010 and 2014 finishing second on both occasions.