Six Imo Indigenes Shine in Nigeria’s Historic U-17 Women’s World Cup Triumph
By Wakawaka Sports
Members of Nigeria’s victorious U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have presented a special gift to the Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, as part of activities marking his birthday.
The presentation came at a memorable moment for the Commissioner, following Nigeria’s historic 2-1 victory over Japan in the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The triumph marked a significant milestone in African football, as the Flamingos became the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The birthday gesture was particularly significant given Onyeocha’s commitment to sports development in Imo State, especially his support for Heartland Queens and the promotion of women’s football.
An elated Onyeocha commended the players, coaching crew and other members of the team for making Nigeria proud, describing their achievement as a source of national pride.
He particularly congratulated Harmony Chidi, captain of the Flamingos, and Oluebube Umejiaku of Heartland Queens for their outstanding contributions to the historic campaign.
Umejiaku further distinguished herself by emerging as the Golden Ball winner of the tournament and winning the Player of the Match award in the final, underlining her impressive performance in Morocco.
The Commissioner also congratulated the entire team and wished the players greater success in their football careers, praying that their World Cup triumph would open doors to bigger opportunities.
Six Imo Indigenes in the Historic Flamingos Squad
Imo State has every reason to celebrate the achievement, with six indigenes featuring in Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team.
The players are:
Harmony Chidi (Captain) – Mbieri, Mbaitoli LGA.
Oscar Precious – Atta, Njaba LGA.
Pattra Oparanmegwa – Uratta, Owerri North LGA.
Onyinyechi Opara (Goalkeeper) – Ogbaku, Mbaitoli LGA.
Favour Nkwocha, Okwudor Njaba LGA
Oluebube Umejiaku – Heartland Queens FC.
The presence of six Imo indigenes in the victorious squad underscores the state’s growing contribution to women’s football in Nigeria.
Their achievements also highlight the importance of grassroots football development, talent identification and sustained investment in young female footballers.
For Onyeocha, the presentation was more than a birthday gift; it was a celebration of sporting excellence and a proud moment for Imo State, whose daughters have helped Nigeria make history on the global stage.
