Nigeria’s Flamingos are gearing up for an exciting quarterfinal showdown against the USA in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. This matchup is a rematch from the 2022 edition held in India, where Nigeria finished third, and this time, the Flamingos are determined to surpass that achievement.
The Flamingos have showcased impressive form throughout the tournament, kicking off their campaign with a commanding 4-1 victory over New Zealand. Shakirat Abidemi Moshood made an immediate impact by scoring just two minutes into the match, converting a pass from Harmony Chidi.
Khadijat Taiwo Adegoke followed suit, adding a second goal in the 13th minute, assisted by Faridat Abdulwahab. The latter then got on the scoresheet herself, netting Nigeria’s third goal in the 28th minute. Taiwo Tewogbola Afolabi capped off the scoring for the Flamingos in the 55th minute, while New Zealand managed to pull one back through Hannah Aimee Saxon in the 60th minute.
In their second group match, the Flamingos secured another convincing victory, defeating Ecuador 4-0. Moshood again opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 28th minute. Chidera Harmony Chidi extended the lead to 2-0 in the 54th minute, with Peace Mary Effiong adding a third goal in the 66th minute. Moshood completed her brace in stoppage time, sealing the win.
Their final group stage match saw the Flamingos edge out a determined Dominican Republic side 1-0, thanks to a stunning 24-yard strike from Moshood in the 89th minute, which secured their position at the top of the group.
On the other side, the USA Under-17 Women’s Youth National Team also had a solid tournament run. Despite a challenging start with a 3-1 loss to reigning champions Spain, they rebounded strongly with a 2-0 victory over Colombia in their second match. In their final group game, the Americans dominated Korea Republic with a 5-0 win, highlighted by a brace from Melanie Barcenas.
As both teams prepare for this crucial quarterfinal clash, fans can expect an exciting match filled with skill and determination from both sides.
