Nigeria Vs Venezuela: Coach Busari Tells Flamingos To “Play When You Have The Ball, Press When You Lose It”

Nigeria U-17 women’s national team head coach, Hakeem Busari, has revealed how he wants the Flamingos to play against Venezuela in the quarter-final of the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The fast-rising tactician told the NFF media that his players are not under any pressure ahead of the game.

“These are kids; there is no need to put them under tension, anxiety and pressure. We will approach the game like we did in the other games,” he said.

According to him, the girls are ready to give their best, just as they have done in every match.

TacticalApproach

Tactically, Busari will possibly set up his team to play when they have possession and press hard when they lose it.

“When we are not with the ball, let’s fight for it. When we are with the ball, let’s play. Let’s keep the possession high,” he said.

Knowing that every missed chance could prove costly, he urged the youngsters to be clinical and score as many goals as possible.

“Take the game calmly, concentrate and take your chances,” he continued.

ExpectingA PhysicalTest

Meanwhile, Busari expects a very physical encounter with Venezuela, who pulled off a surprise 1-0 victory over Germany in the Round of 16. The South Americans eliminated the reigning European champions to book their place in the last eight.

The coach noted that the Venezuelans are strong in the duels and could be difficult for his smaller-framed players to contain.

“South American teams are thorough and tough in marking and in duels. They are very strong physically, and those were the things we reminded the players of during preparation,” he said.

Nonetheless, he is counting on his players’ speed and discipline to overcome the challenge.

“We don’t have the bigger sizes they (Venezuela) have, so we have to play the ball more on the ground. We have done it before…”

Mentally Ready 

On the team’s mental readiness for such a big game, Busari said the squad will be psychologically prepared.

“We will get the mentality right. We have to fight for every ball and move for the second balls. We will take the game to them and pray for luck,” he said.

Road to The Last Eight 

The Flamingos began their Morocco 2026 World Cup campaign with a defeat to Poland. They bounced back with a win over Puerto Rico and stunned defending champions DPR Korea 3-1. 

In the Round of 16 on Thursday, 29 October, Nigeria beat Mexico 2-1 through goals from Oluebube Umejiaku, her third of the tournament, and Mary Dunstan to reach this stage. 

Match Details

The Flamingos will face Venezuela by 7pm (Nigerian time) at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Salé (Rabat), Morocco.