Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, are on the verge of securing a spot at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the eighth time. They travel to Algeria this week for the decisive second leg of their final qualifying tie, which takes place Friday night at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker in Blida, near Algiers.
The Flamingos take a comfortable 4-0 aggregate lead into the encounter, having dominated the first leg at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne. Queen Joseph set the tone with a goal in the opening minute, while Zainab Raji and Aishat Animashaun added to the tally in a commanding performance.
To reward their efforts, the team received a ₦6 million bonus, jointly provided by Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Musa Gusau and philanthropist Kunle Soname. Both benefactors have pledged additional incentives should the team secure qualification in Algeria.
Head coach Bankole Olowookere is confident ahead of the clash, saying, “Our mission is clear – to clinch a World Cup ticket. That’s our biggest motivation. The financial support has only boosted our determination. My girls will give it everything on Friday night.”
The team arrived in Algeria earlier in the week and have been adjusting to the cooler Mediterranean climate as they wrap up their preparations. Kick-off is set for 8 p.m. local time.
The 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will be held in Morocco from October 17 to November 8.
This edition will be the first to feature 24 teams, and Nigeria is determined to improve on their third-place finish from 2022.
