Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, took a significant step toward qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup with an emphatic 2-0 victory over South Africa’s Bantwana on Saturday.
The match, played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, sealed Nigeria’s dominance in the two-legged affair, as they secured an impressive 5-1 aggregate win to advance to the final phase of the qualification series.
The Flamingos had already put themselves in a commanding position last week with a 3-1 victory in the first leg played in South Africa.
With a two-goal cushion going into the second leg, the Nigerian girls delivered another clinical performance to ensure their progression without much difficulty.
First-Half Brilliance Sets the Tone
The match began with both sides testing each other cautiously, with neither team finding the breakthrough in the opening minutes.
The Bantwana, knowing they needed a convincing win to overturn the deficit, tried to push forward, but the Nigerian defense, led by captain Mary Aderemi, stood firm.
Nigeria’s breakthrough came in the 37th minute when Harmony Chidi, who had been the standout performer in the first leg with two goals, once again proved her mettle.
A well-taken free kick from the right flank by Shakirat Moshood found Chidi at the far post, and she expertly directed her header past South African goalkeeper Samekelise Mthembu, putting the Flamingos in the driver’s seat.
With that goal, South Africa’s chances of making a comeback grew slimmer. Nigeria dominated possession for the rest of the half, confidently keeping the visitors at bay as they took a 1-0 lead into the break.
Second-Half Masterclass Seals Victory
Emerging from halftime, Nigeria continued their dominance, denying the Bantwana any clear goal-scoring opportunities. The Flamingos doubled their lead in the 56th minute, effectively sealing the contest. Once again, Moshood was instrumental, delivering another well-placed cross that found Aishat Animashaun in the box.
Showing remarkable composure, Animashaun lifted the ball over the onrushing Mthembu and into the net, sparking wild celebrations among Nigerian fans.
With the game firmly in their control, Nigeria expertly managed the remaining minutes, ensuring that South Africa had no chance of a comeback.
Goalkeeper Chinedu Aniagboso had a relatively quiet evening, as Nigeria’s disciplined defense neutralized every attacking attempt from the Bantwana.
Final Round Awaits
The Flamingos’ strong performance over two legs has now earned them a place in the final round of the African qualification series for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Nigeria will face the winner between Botswana and Algeria in the decisive final round, with a ticket to the global tournament at stake.
Nigeria, known for its rich history in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, remains one of the dominant forces in African women’s football.
The Flamingos were drawn directly into the second round of qualification due to their outstanding performance at the last edition of the tournament, where they finished in third place.
Coach Bankole’s Verdict
Speaking after the match, Flamingos head coach Bankole Olowookere praised his players for their resilience and tactical discipline.
“We came into this match with the mindset of finishing the job, and I’m proud of how the girls executed our game plan. South Africa is a good team, but our girls showed hunger and determination,” he said.
Olowookere also emphasized the need for continued preparation ahead of the final round. We are not there yet, but we are getting closer.
The next phase will be tougher, and we must remain focused. Our goal is to qualify for the World Cup and make Nigeria proud,” he added.
Looking Ahead
As the Flamingos await their next opponents, the team’s strong performance in this qualification round has boosted confidence among Nigerian football fans.
With a blend of skill, discipline, and determination, Nigeria’s U-17 girls are well on their way to securing a place at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The final round of qualification is expected to take place in the coming months, with Nigeria hoping to extend its impressive record on the international stage.
For now, the Flamingos can celebrate a well-earned victory while keeping their sights firmly set on the ultimate prize—World Cup qualification.
