The 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, hosted by the Dominican Republic, will feature a diverse array of teams from around the world, including three representatives from Africa: Nigeria, Zambia, and Kenya. Here’s a summary of how these teams qualified and their prospects for the tournament:
1. **Nigeria (Flamingos)**:
– Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, known as the Flamingos, is a powerhouse in African women’s football.
– They secured their qualification by defeating Liberia 6-1 on aggregate. The Flamingos won the first leg 4-1 and followed up with a 2-0 victory in Abuja.
– Nigeria has a strong history in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, having participated in six of the seven previous editions. They will be among the favorites from Africa.
2. **Zambia (Copper Princesses)**:
– Zambia’s U-17 women’s national team, the Copper Princesses, will make a return to the global stage after a decade-long absence.
– They qualified by overcoming Morocco with a 3-1 aggregate victory. Despite a goalless draw in Morocco, Zambia’s performance in the first leg secured their spot.
– The Copper Princesses will aim to make a significant impact in the tournament and showcase their talent on the international stage.
3. **Kenya (Junior Starlets)**:
– Kenya’s U-17 women’s national team, the Junior Starlets, will make their debut appearance in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
– They achieved a historic qualification by defeating Burundi 5-0 on aggregate, with a 2-0 victory in Nairobi sealing their maiden ticket to the finals.
– Kenya’s participation marks a milestone in the country’s footballing journey and reflects the growth of women’s football in Kenya.
These three African teams will join a prestigious lineup of nations from across the globe at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The tournament will feature teams like England, Brazil, United States, Japan, and the hosts Dominican Republic, among others. It promises to be an exciting event showcasing the rising talent in women’s football globally.
