Taribo West Urges Flamingos to Stay Focused, Bring Home U-17 World Cup Trophy

Former Super Eagles defender Taribo West has charged Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, to stay united, disciplined, and determined as they set their sights on glory at the upcoming FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The team arrived safely in Casablanca on Wednesday after a four-hour, twenty-minute flight from Abuja, ahead of the global tournament scheduled to begin on October 17.

Before their departure, the Flamingos had an inspiring encounter with the former Inter Milan star at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where Taribo offered prayers and words of motivation to the young squad.

“Be very disciplined. I’ll be watching you and praying for you,” Taribo told the girls. “I believe you will bring the trophy home, just like your elder sisters, the Super Falcons, did a few months ago.”

The 2000 Africa Cup of Nations bronze medalist stressed the importance of teamwork, obedience, and self-control, describing discipline as the foundation of professionalism.

“Always listen to your coaches,” he advised. “In my 30 years as a professional, discipline and the right mindset opened doors for me. Those qualities still speak for me today.”

Taribo also urged the players to avoid distractions from fans during matches, emphasizing the need to stay focused on their tactical instructions.

“Don’t listen to the crowd; listen to your coach. The crowd can mislead you, but your coach will guide you to success,” he said.

Concluding his address, the former defender encouraged the girls to support one another regardless of who gets selected to play.

“If you’re not picked, bless and pray for your teammate. That unity will bring strength and extraordinary performance to the team,” he added.

The Flamingos are currently camped at the Ibis Hotel in Casablanca and held a light training session on Wednesday evening. They are expected to play two friendly matches against New Zealand and Paraguay before moving to Marrakesh, where they will begin their World Cup campaign.

Nigeria is drawn in Group D alongside Canada, France, and Samoa, and will enter the competition brimming with confidence after winning all ten of their preparatory matches — scoring 44 goals without conceding any.