Flamingos Draw Inspiration from Nigerian Legend Mercy Akide-Udoh Ahead of World Cup Opener

Nigeria’s U17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, received a major boost on Friday as Nigerian football legend and FIFA Ambassador, Mercy Akide-Udoh, visited their camp in Morocco ahead of their opening match at the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.

Akide-Udoh, a former Super Falcons star and pioneer of women’s football in Nigeria, met with the young players two days before their first game against Canada, scheduled for Sunday. She shared words of encouragement, urging the girls to stay focused, disciplined, and united as they represent the country on the global stage.

The former African Women’s Player of the Year is in Morocco as a member of the FIFA Players’ Voice Panel, a 16-member global body made up of former male and female footballers from diverse backgrounds and all six confederations. The panel works closely with FIFA and its 211 Member Associations to promote a global stand against racism.

The Players’ Voice Panel focuses on three key areas:

• Advise: Offering guidance on initiatives that drive the fight against racism.
• Educate: Leading educational campaigns to raise awareness and inspire action against discrimination.
• Monitor: Tracking progress and promoting reforms for lasting change in football communities worldwide.

Akide-Udoh, who played at multiple FIFA Women’s World Cups for Nigeria, said she was proud of the Flamingos and promised to continue supporting them throughout the tournament. She also plans to visit the team again before their opening match.

Her visit served as both an inspiration and a reminder of Nigeria’s rich history in women’s football, motivating the Flamingos to aim high as they begin their World Cup campaign.