As part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun has thrown open the gates of the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Abeokuta, for football fans to watch the Nigeria Falconets take on Senegal in the first leg of the FIFA U 20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The match, scheduled for Saturday, is expected to draw a large crowd as residents are invited to troop out and support the national female team at no cost.
The state government said the decision was taken in the spirit of the golden jubilee celebration, aimed at giving the people a sense of inclusion in the milestone event.
The qualifier was initially fixed for the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan but was moved to Abeokuta following concerns over the condition of the Ibadan pitch.
Announcing the development on Friday, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, urged football lovers to turn out in their numbers and rally behind the Falconets.
Isiaka said the Abiodun administration remained committed to supporting female sports and ensuring that national teams playing in the state enjoy a conducive atmosphere to succeed on the international stage.
He noted that the free entry would not only motivate the players but also showcase Ogun State’s passion for sports development.
According to him, “The Nigeria Falconets’ encounter against Senegal is a crucial one, and the team needs all the support it can get to secure a win. With the Ogun State Government throwing open the gates, fans are expected to seize the opportunity and show their support for the team.
“This is history making, the Falconets have never missed out on any World Cup qualifier, therefore, Ogun State Government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure they qualify once again. Abeokuta is the home of football and we must show the world that we are a football loving state.
“The governor’s gesture is in the mood of the ongoing 50th anniversary of the state and sports as one of the key mantra of the I.S.E.Y.A of Mr. Governor, we are giving Ogun State residents, especially Abeokuta people, the opportunity to have a feel of the celebration.”
He added that the government would continue to provide necessary support to all national teams hosted in Abeokuta, while urging fans to arrive early to secure seats and be part of what promises to be an exciting contest.
The second leg of the qualifier will be played in Dakar, Senegal, on February 14, with both teams battling for a place at the FIFA U 20 Women’s World Cup scheduled to hold in Poland.
