Nigeria’s U-17 female national team, the Flamingos, reached their first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final after defeating South American powerhouse Brazil 3-1 in a thrilling semi-final encounter at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Morocco.
The Nigerian youngsters produced an impressive second-half performance, scoring three goals to overcome their South American opponents and move within one victory of claiming their maiden title.
Queen Joseph opened the scoring in the 56th minute, converting a pass from Oluwakemi Adegbuyi to give Nigeria the breakthrough.
The Flamingos doubled their advantage in the 71st minute when Awawu Bashiru found the net, with Joseph providing the assist.
Bashiru struck again in the 80th minute, completing her brace after converting a pass from Oluebube Umejiaku to put Nigeria 3-0 ahead.
Brazil managed to pull one goal back in the 89th minute through Greise Kelly, but the Flamingos held on to secure a historic victory and book their place in the final.
The first half ended goalless despite both teams creating opportunities, with Nigeria showing attacking intent through Joseph, Adegbuyi, Umejiaku, Mary Akpan Dunstan, Kanyinsola Yusuf and Favour Nkwocha.
However, neither side could find the breakthrough before the interval, leaving the semi-final finely balanced heading into the second half.
Nigeria eventually found their rhythm after the restart, with Joseph’s 56th-minute strike shifting the momentum in their favour.
Bashiru’s two goals further underlined the Flamingos’ attacking threat as they took control of the contest and secured their place in the final.
Nigeria will face Japan in Saturday’s final, November 7, with an opportunity to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the first time.
Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.
