Nigeria’s U-17 women’s football team, the Flamingos, achieved a 5-1 aggregate victory over South Africa’s Bantwana in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers, winning 2-0 in the second leg. Harmony Chidi and Aishat Animashaun scored for Nigeria, while Coach Olowookere stressed the importance of maintaining focus. Nigeria will advance to face either Botswana or Algeria in the final qualifying round, aiming for a spot in the Morocco 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The Nigerian U-17 women’s football team, known as the Flamingos, advanced to the next round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying matches with a convincing 2-0 victory over South Africa’s Bantwana, resulting in a 5-1 aggregate win. This decisive match took place in Ikenne-Remo, underscoring Nigeria’s dominance after a prior 3-1 win in Pretoria.
In the second leg, Harmony Chidi, who scored twice in the first match, netted the opening goal in the 37th minute with a skillful header from a free-kick delivered by Shakirat Moshood. Moshood, a scorer in the first leg, assisted Aishat Animashaun for the second goal in the 56th minute, placing Nigeria firmly in control of the match.
Despite a solid performance from South African players Zoe October, Thoriso Mphelo, Khmezi Khoza, and Captain Katleho Malebana, their team struggled to breach Nigeria’s formidable defense, comprising Hannah Ibrahim, Jumai Adebayo, Philomena Isaiah, and Favour Iheagwam.
Coach Bankole Olowookere emphasized the importance of maintaining focus throughout the match, cautioning against complacency following their earlier victory. He stated, “It would be foolish to assume otherwise,” highlighting the team’s commitment to a disciplined approach throughout the game.
Following this victory, Nigeria moves to the final round of the African qualifiers, poised to face Botswana or Algeria next month. The ultimate goal for the Flamingos is to secure a place in the Morocco 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, building upon their previous success where they finished third in the last edition.
In summary, Nigeria’s Flamingos displayed an impressive performance in their U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying match, securing a place in the final round with a 5-1 aggregate victory against South Africa. The team’s discipline and tactical awareness, as emphasized by Coach Olowookere, were paramount in their success. As they prepare for their next challenge against either Botswana or Algeria, the Flamingos remain focused on clinching another opportunity to showcase their talents on the global stage.
Original Source: www.brila.net
