Nigeria’s Flamingos have reached their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final after defeating Brazil 3-1 in a thrilling semi-final encounter in Morocco.
The Nigerian girls produced an impressive second-half performance, scoring three goals after a goalless opening period before Brazil grabbed a late consolation goal.
Queen Joseph opened the scoring in the 56th minute, turning home Oluwakemi Adegubyi’s assist to give Nigeria the lead.
The Flamingos doubled their advantage in the 71st minute through Awawu Bashiru, who finished off a pass from Joseph.
Bashiru completed her brace nine minutes later, converting Oluebube Umejiaku’s delivery to put Nigeria 3-0 ahead.
Brazil reduced the deficit in the 89th minute through Greise Kelly, who was assisted by Yasmin Queiroz. However, the late goal could not prevent Nigeria from securing a historic victory.
Flamingos Set Up Final Against Japan
The victory sends Nigeria into their maiden final at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, where they will face Japan.
Japan booked their place in the final after defeating defending champions North Korea in the other semi-final.
The Flamingos will now have the opportunity to win Nigeria’s first title in the history of the competition.
Nigeria’s Road to the U-17 World Cup Final
Nigeria’s journey to the final has been marked by an impressive recovery after starting the tournament with a 2-1 defeat to Poland.
The team responded with a 2-0 victory over Puerto Rico, with Oluwakemi Adegubyi and Precious Oscar getting on the scoresheet.
They followed that result with a 3-1 win over North Korea, ending the defending champions’ 18-match unbeaten run in regulation time at the competition.
Adegubyi, Umejiaku and Kanyinsola Rodiat Yusuf scored in that encounter.
The Flamingos finished second in Group B with six points, having scored six goals and conceded four in their three group matches.
Nigeria then defeated Mexico 2-1 in the round of 16, with Umejiaku and Mary Dunstan scoring for the West Africans.
They secured their semi-final place with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Venezuela. Azeezat Oduntan converted an 89th-minute penalty to settle the quarter-final encounter.
Flamingos Aim to Improve on 2022 Bronze Medal
Nigeria’s qualification for the final represents a new milestone for the team, surpassing their previous best finish of third place at the 2022 edition.
The Flamingos claimed bronze in 2022 after defeating Germany on penalties.
They also arrived in Morocco in strong form after winning the WAFU B U-17 title with a perfect record of five victories from five matches.
Nigeria scored 17 goals and conceded just once during the regional competition.
With Brazil now behind them and Japan standing between them and the trophy, the Flamingos will look to complete their historic campaign by winning Nigeria’s first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
