Mercy Akide-Udoh Motivates Nigeria’s Flamingos Ahead of U17 Women’s World Cup
Nigerian football icon and FIFA ambassador, Mercy Akide-Udoh, has inspired Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, as they prepare for their 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup opener in Morocco. The meeting, held just days before their first match against Canada on Sunday, was filled with words of motivation and encouragement from the football legend.
Akide-Udoh, one of Nigeria’s most respected female players, is currently in Morocco serving as a member of the FIFA Players’ Voice Panel. In her address to the team, she emphasized the importance of teamwork, discipline, and confidence on the global stage. She reminded the young players of their role as ambassadors of not only Nigeria but African women’s football as a whole.
As part of her duties on the FIFA panel, Akide-Udoh is leading educational initiatives that promote awareness and inspire concrete action against racism and all forms of discrimination in football. During her session with the Flamingos, she encouraged the girls to remain focused, stay united, and believe in their potential to achieve greatness in the tournament.
The Players’ Voice Panel, made up of 16 former professional footballers from all six confederations, provides advice and support to FIFA and its 211 Member Associations in their global campaign to combat racism and foster equality in sports. Members of the panel come from diverse backgrounds and share their experiences to help young athletes navigate challenges on and off the pitch.
Mercy Akide-Udoh’s presence brought excitement and inspiration to the Nigerian squad, who expressed their admiration for her achievements and leadership. The players said her words had boosted their morale and strengthened their confidence ahead of the much-anticipated tournament kickoff.
With the Flamingos set to face Canada, the team will be hoping to make a strong impression in their opening match and continue Nigeria’s proud legacy in women’s football.
