Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, secured a convincing 5-1 aggregate victory over South Africa’s Bantwana, with a 2-0 win in the second leg of their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying fixture in Ikenne-Remo on Saturday.
Harmony Chidi, who scored two goals in the first leg, continued her impressive form by scoring the opening goal in the 37th minute. Shakirat Moshood, who also scored in the first leg, provided the assist with a well-taken free kick.
The Flamingos doubled their lead in the second half, thanks to Aishat Animashaun’s goal in the 56th minute. Moshood again provided the assist, finding Animashaun with a precise pass.
Despite their best efforts, the Bantwana were unable to breach the Nigerian defense, which was marshaled by Hannah Ibrahim, Jumai Adebayo, Philomena Isaiah, and Favour Iheagwam.
The win propels the Flamingos to the final round of the qualifying race, where they will face the winner of the fixture between Botswana and Algeria next month.
Nigeria’s coach, Bankole Olowookere, had emphasized the importance of maintaining focus despite their first-leg advantage. His cautious approach paid dividends, as the Flamingos delivered a disciplined performance to complete the job on home soil.
The Morocco 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will be the eighth edition of the biennial international youth football tournament.
*Match Stats:*
– _Goals:_ Harmony Chidi (37′), Aishat Animashaun (56′)
– _Aggregate Score:_ Nigeria 5, South Africa 1
What the win connotes
The Flamingos’ victory is a testament to their hard work and dedication to the sport. The team’s performance was characterized by discipline, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As they progress to the final round of the qualifying race, they will face new challenges and tougher opponents, but their confidence and momentum will undoubtedly serve them well.
Nigeria’s coach, Bankole Olowookere, deserves credit for his tactical acumen and leadership. His decision to emphasize the importance of maintaining focus despite their first-leg advantage proved to be a masterstroke. The team’s disciplined performance was a reflection of their coach’s guidance and instruction.
As the Flamingos look forward to the next round of the qualifying race, they will be aware of the significance of their achievement. By representing Nigeria in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, they will be ambassadors for their country and their sport. Their success will inspire a new generation of Nigerian girls to take up the sport, and their legacy will be felt for years to come.