Nigeria’s Flamingos sealed their spot in the final round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers with a commanding 5-1 aggregate victory over South Africa. The Nigerian side secured a 2-0 win in the second leg, played on home soil, after an impressive 3-1 first-leg triumph in South Africa.
Nigeria took the lead in the 37th minute when Harmony Chidi, who scored twice in the first leg, nodded home from a tight angle. The goal added to South Africa’s woes, as they struggled to overturn their deficit.
Shakirat Moshood, who was also on the scoresheet in the first leg, played a key role once again. She provided the assist for Chidi’s goal with a well-placed free kick from the right. Eleven minutes into the second half, Moshood turned provider again, setting up Aishat Animashaun, who expertly lifted the ball over South African goalkeeper Samekelise Mthembu to make it 2-0.
Despite spirited performances from Zoe October, Thoriso Mphelo, Khmezi Khoza, and captain Katleho Malebana, South Africa’s Bantwana found no way past Nigeria’s resolute defense, marshaled by Hannah Ibrahim, Jumai Adebayo, Philomena Isaiah, and Favour Iheagwam.
With this victory, Nigeria advances to the final round of the qualifiers, where they will face the winner of the Botswana vs. Algeria fixture next month. A triumph in that tie will secure their place at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup later this year.
