Chiamaka Okwuchukwu casually shrugs and tells FIFA that she’s unsure how her remarkable skills developed. When asked about the origins of her technique, movement, and finishing that have distinguished her in the ongoing FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup™️, she reflects with a touch of humility.
“I can’t really pinpoint how it all started; it feels like a gift,” she shares, delving into her background from Nigeria.
“Growing up, I didn’t have formal coaching. I just loved football. Whenever I saw someone playing, I’d follow them and ask to join. That’s how it all began.”
From her early days of playing in school and on the streets of her hometown, Chiamaka made her way to Rivers Angels, the dominant Port Harcourt-based team with nine Nigeria Women’s Cup titles. It wasn’t long before her talent attracted attention from the national team.
Her impressive performances, including goals in consecutive matches against Germany and Venezuela (where she also provided an assist), have certainly made an impact. At just 19, Chiamaka’s eagerness to take on defenders and her forward-thinking play have set her apart as a future star.
When asked about her best quality, she highlights her speed.
“It’s my pace,” she reveals.
Her coach, Christopher Danjuma, believes that Chiamaka’s potential is still unfolding.
“She hasn’t reached her full potential yet,” Danjuma explains. “What you’re seeing now is just the beginning. She has great instincts in front of goal and the ability to take on defenders. We’re working on enhancing her ability to provide assists and make precise passes. She’s on track to achieve that.”
Despite still being in school in Nigeria, Chiamaka hopes her performance in Colombia will attract the attention of scouts and lead to a professional career. She dreams of moving to a top European club, inspired by one of her idols.
“This tournament is a huge opportunity for me to showcase my skills and hopefully advance to a bigger club in Europe,” she says. “I admire Cristiano Ronaldo a lot, so playing for Manchester United is a major dream of mine. Even just meeting Ronaldo and having a good handshake would be incredible.”
