Nigeria’s resilient Flamingos have once again asserted their dominance on the African stage, booking a ticket to the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Coach Akeem Busari’s charges delivered a commanding performance, defeating Benin Republic 5-3 in the second leg at Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo, to advance 8-5 on aggregate
Mark Akpan, Esther Stephen, and Queen Joseph shone brightly on the scoresheet as the Flamingos romped to victory in the return fixture. This hard-fought triumph caps an impressive qualifying journey that underscores Nigeria’s status as one of Africa’s premier youth football powerhouses.
The path to qualification began strongly. After receiving a bye in the opening round, the Flamingos dismantled Guinea with ruthless efficiency in the second round.
They secured a convincing 5-0 away win before thrashing the visitors 6-0 at home in Ikenne, posting an emphatic 11-0 aggregate victory. This set the stage for the decisive clash against Benin.
In the first leg at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, the Flamingos edged a thrilling five-goal encounter 3-2. Despite Benin mounting a spirited comeback, Nigeria held firm to take a narrow lead into the return fixture.
The second leg proved equally entertaining, with the visitors showcasing attacking flair to seal progression.
This success marks Nigeria’s ninth appearance at the global tournament, highlighting their remarkable consistency. The Flamingos have featured in nearly every edition since the competition’s inception, missing only 2018.
They reached the quarterfinals in 2010, 2012, and 2014, then broke new ground in 2022 by advancing to the semifinals and claiming third place after a penalty-shootout victory over the United States. In 2024, they once more progressed to the last eight.
Players like Harmony Chidi, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, and the goal-scorers against Benin exemplify the team’s depth and attacking potency. Their seamless qualification cements Nigeria’s reputation for producing talented squads capable of competing on the world stage.
As one of Africa’s four qualifiers (joining hosts Morocco for a fifth continental slot), the Flamingos now prepare for the 24-team finals from October 17 to November 7, 2026.