Nigeria’s Flamingos clinch 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup berth
The Nigerian U-17 women’s team, known as the Flamingos, have booked their ticket to the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Benin Republic 5-3 in the second leg of the qualifier held in Lomé, Togo. The victory gave Nigeria an 8-5 aggregate win and one of Africa’s five qualification slots for the tournament, which will be hosted in Morocco later this year.
First leg recap: a narrow advantage
Nigeria arrived in Togo with a slim 3-2 lead from the first leg played in Ikenne. After falling behind early, the Flamingos fought back, with Queen Joseph heading the equaliser, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi putting them ahead, and Kindness Ifeanyi scoring the late winner to secure the first‑leg advantage.
Second leg: a goal‑filled spectacle
The return match lived up to its billing, delivering end‑to‑end action. Mary Akpan Dunstan opened the scoring just six minutes in, and Esther Enne Stephen doubled the lead eight minutes later.
Forward Queen Joseph then took centre stage, completing a hat‑trick with goals in the 20th, 54th and 75th minutes to put the tie firmly beyond Benin’s reach. Despite a spirited fightback from the visitors — Romaine Gandonou netting twice (9th and 64th minutes) and Hermionne Lokossou adding a goal in the 56th — the Flamingos held firm and saw out the match comfortably.
What the qualification means for Nigeria
With this win, Nigeria joins hosts Morocco as one of the continent’s representatives at the expanded 24‑team tournament scheduled for 17 October to 7 November 2026 in Morocco. The Flamingos will now prepare to showcase their talent on the world stage alongside the other four African qualifiers.
About the Author
