Falconets players cleared of drug use

Two Falconets who were tested for dope have been given a clean bill of health by FIFA.By Tunde Eleduni

There was a huge sigh of relief in the Nigerian camp as the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) gave two members of the Falconets, Desire Oparanozie and Chidinma Okoro a clean bill of health at the on-going FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Japan.

On August 19, shortly after the team’s opening game against Korea Republic, the players’ urine samples were collected for a doping test.

But when the results were released late Sunday evening, (August 26), both players were cleared of taking any performance enhancing drugs.

It is the practice of FIFA to randomly pick two players from both sides after a game for the test.

Joy

“I am happy with the results. It is a good one for the team especially at this crucial time, revealed head Coach,” Edwin Okon, nicknamed “The Bull” by Assistant Coach, Florence Omagbemi.

Oparanozie who would be featuring in her fifth World Cup appearance has a goal to her credit; it was against Korea Republic in the opening group game.

During Nigeria’s last group match, she had the opportunity of increasing her tally but had her attempt at goal saved by Italian keeper, Laura Giuliani.

Oparanozie is expected to be in action again when Nigeria takes on Mexico in the quarter final on Thursday.