Nigeria’s U17 girls are just one match away from claiming the inaugural WAFU U17 Girls’ Cup after a hard-fought 2-0 victory over the Benin Republic in Thursday’s semi-final.
The game, played at the Ghana Centre of Excellence in Prampram, saw the Flamingos secure their spot in the final with two decisive second-half goals.
Mary Lucky Mkpa broke the deadlock in the 70th minute by calmly converting a penalty. This came shortly after striker Janet Akekoromowei missed a crucial chance to put Nigeria ahead.
Peace Effiong doubled the lead eight minutes later, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error to cement the win. Akekoromowei had another opportunity to score in the 84th minute, but her goal was disallowed for impeding the goalkeeper.
With this victory, the Flamingos advance to face Ghana in the tournament’s final on Sunday Coincidentally, the same day will feature a clash between the two nations’ senior men’s teams in Accra as they battle in the first leg of their African Nations Championship qualifier.
The Flamingos, boasting an impressive record of 14 goals scored and only two conceded in three matches, will enter the final brimming with confidence. Ghana, fresh off a dominant 5-0 semi-final win over Côte d’Ivoire, will aim to defend their home turf and claim the WAFU U17 Girls’ Cup title.
The stage is set for an intense and thrilling final showdown between the two West African giants.
