The grassroots sports specialist believes Brazil will fall like Venezuela
Pius Ayinor
The Special Advisor on Grassroots Sports Mobilization to the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Hon. Frank Ilaboya, has joined millions of Nigerians in congratulating the Flamingos on their victory against Venezuela in the quarterfinals of the FIFA Women’s U17 World Cup in Morocco.
The Nigerian Girls edged Venezuela 1-0 in a tense fixture Sunday night to book a game against Brazil on Wednesday in the semi-finals.
Ilaboya said Flamingos’ performances so far in the tournament reinforce the need to get young talents from the grassroots, both in the boys and girls categories.
The advisor believes that the encouragement given by Okpebholo to scout for talents at the grassroots in Edo State must be extended to the girl child, stressing that diverting girls away from societal vices could only be possible when they are engaged at a younger age, especially through sports.
Ilaboya, while commending Gov Okpebholo for his foresight in creating a specialized department for grassroots sports, added that his responsibility is to change the narrative by going into the nook and cranny of the state to scout for talents that will make Edo State and the nation proud.
“This opportunity created by His Excellency for the grassroots sports department must be fully extended to the girl child by engaging them early through constructive sports activities,” the one-time Chairman of the Edo State Football Association said.
“We are putting together a comprehensive program that will bring Edo State back to her dominance in age-grade tournaments.”
The Nigerian U-17 girls have had a great run in the tournament, beating the defending Champions, North Korea, 3-1 in the group stage, and their hard-won victory against Venezuela Sunday night is a pointer that they have what it takes to be champions.
As they face Brazil in another tense semi-final clash on Wednesday, the sports administrator is sure of another victory for Nigeria.
“With what we have seen of these girls so far, defeating Brazil is not impossible. These young girls have exhibited strong character, resilience and great determination, and these are the ingredients of Champions.
“This is why I am confident of victory over the Samba Girls come on Wednesday. If they put up the same scintillating performance displayed against the defending Champions, North Korea, whom they brushed aside 3-1, I can see Brazil falling,” he added.
Photo: Frank Ilaboya
