National U-17 side, Flamingoes were on Saturday held by Canada in a pulsating 1-1 draw at the Tofig Bahramov Stadium.
Though the team spurned a lot of scoring chances, but only got a goal through Ihezuo’s volley to equalize on a goal which earlier gave the Canadians the lead in the 63rd minute.
They then pushed for a winner, and ultimately had to be content with a point.
Coach Peter Dedevbo, who was amazed by how his side could not win a match they deserved to, rued the missed chances. He however, praised the girls for upping their came to get the much needed equalizer.
“The game was good for my team. We created a lot of scoring opportunities but could not utilize them. In the second half, the Canadians came at us and took the lead. But we were able to up our game and get an equalizer.
“I will say that the girls under performed in this game but I’m happy they equalized. I know that they will be different in the next game, as their performance will improve as the tournament progresses” he said.
Dedevbo however, admitted to being anxious when the goals were not forthcoming, especially when the Canadians took the lead in the second half. He also said that he and his technical crew would put their heads together to correct the deficiencies noticed in the Canada match.
“After hitting the bars several times I was worried about the girls not scoring but I knew they would score in the second half. I’m really happy they did.
?“Myself and the technical crew have to sit down and discuss what changes we need to make to sharpen the team’s finishing. I can assure Nigerians that the next game will be different,” said Dedevbo.
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Meanwhile scorer of Nigeria’s goal Chiwendu Ihezuo expressed delight at scoring a world cup goal.
‘’I am thankful to God for making it possible for me to be the one who scored for the team, no doubt we missed so many scoring chances but I believe in our next match, Myself and other attackers will put better smiles on the faces of Nigerians”.
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The team departed for Lankaran, yesterday to the venue of its next must-win match against hosts, Azerbaijan.
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