Nigeria qualifies for 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals

Nigeria’s U17 girls, known as the Flamingos, secured their spot in the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals following a thrilling 5-3 victory against the Amazons of Benin Republic in Lomé on Saturday. This result ensured that Nigeria won the two-legged tie with an 8-5 aggregate score, highlighting their strength in the final qualifying round.

In the first leg, the Flamingos had narrowly led 3-2 after the match held in Ikenne, Ogun State the previous weekend, which set the stage for a decisive return leg. The team started strong in Lomé, with Mary Dustan scoring in the 6th minute. However, the Amazons quickly responded, equalizing just three minutes later.

Nigeria regained the lead in the 15th minute through Esther Stephen, and five minutes later, Queen Joseph further extended the advantage, bringing the score to 3-1 within the opening 20 minutes. Despite a spirited effort from the Beninese side, who fought back to keep the match competitive, the Flamingos displayed remarkable composure in the closing stages.

Queen Joseph scored her second goal of the day in the 76th minute, sealing a crucial 5-3 triumph and confirming Nigeria’s qualification for the World Cup in Morocco. The Flamingos now prepare to compete among the world’s best teams as they aim to enhance their growing reputation on the global stage.