Super Falconets of Nigeria midfielder, Joy Igbokwe is brimming with confidence as the team prepare to face Japan in the round of 16 at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. All eyes are on Estadio Metropolitano de Bogotá, where Nigeria’s U-20 women’s team, led by coach Christopher Danjuma, will face a formidable Japanese side on Friday, September 13.
Midfielder, Joy Igbokwe who plays her club football with NWFL side, Naija Ratels, spoke via telephone with our correspondence expressing her steely resolve and unwavering belief in the squad’s readiness.
She spoke candidly ahead of the crucial clash saying; “myself and my teammates are ready for this challenge.”
Joy’s optimism comes from the team’s laser-like focus and the leadership of coach Danjuma, who has expertly guided them through the tournament so far.
“The coach is hard on us when he needs to be and lenient when he needs to be – there’s a good balance to help us progress,” Joy revealed, praising Danjuma’s ability to strike the right tone as the stakes intensify. The Falconets have peaked at just the right time, their confidence boosted by a resounding 4-0 victory over Venezuela at Pascual Guerrero Stadium in Cali. Joy herself had a standout moment in that match, coming off the bench as a second-half substitute and scoring a stunning screamer in the 90+3 minute, capping off a brilliant team performance that sealed second place in their group behind Germany.
Now, with their attention fully locked on Japan, Joy Igbokwe and her teammates know the task ahead is massive. “The focus is solely on the Japan game and getting the job done,” she emphasized. The stakes couldn’t be higher, but the Falconets are determined, embracing the challenge with the meticulous preparation they’ve undergone in training.
As Friday approaches, the Super Falconets carry the hopes of a nation, ready to leave everything on the field in their pursuit of glory at the U-20 Women’s World Cup. The stage is set, and Joy Igbokwe is confident that her team is prepared to rise to the occasion.
