Falconets Coach positive ahead of Mexico clash

Chief Coach of the U-20 Women National Team, Edwin Okon has reaffirmed his respect for Mexico whom they confront tomorrow in one of the quarter final matches of the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Japan.

The match which is scheduled for Tokyo National Stadium will be aired at 8am in Nigeria and it is the 25th match of the tournament.

Speaking at the Pre-Match Conference shortly after the team's official training, Okon described their opponents as one replete with surprises.

"This is a team that came from a 4-0 goal deficit against Japan in their opening match to qualify for the quarter final. It shows that it is a team with great potential and determination," he added.

"But l have told my girls not to be deterred but they should be resolute. All the eight teams left in the competition are targeting the trophy, so it is going to be a tough fight.

In yesterday's training, the girls practiced penalty shoot-outs in case the match goes into extra time. This would be the second meeting between both sides. In 2010 in Germany, both teams played a 1-1 draw at the group stage of the competition.

Both Players and Coaches every evening after dinner take time to study their opponent’s matches.

Unlike Nigeria's falconets which has reached the quarter final five times out of six Women's World Cup participation, this will be Las Aztecas second appearance. Nigeria however has an edge having gone beyond the quarters in 2010, while Mexico were knocked out by Korea Republic.

Meanwhile Singaporean referee, Apbai Abirami will be at the centre for tomorrow's match and will be assisted by Cui Yongmei of China. While Lee Seulgi of Korea and Qin Liang of China are the second Assistant Referee and fourth official respectively.