Flamingos begin WAFU B U17 Girls’ Cup with 5-0 win over Niger Republic

Nigeria’s Flamingos opened their 2026 WAFU B U17 Girls’ Cup campaign with a convincing 5-0 victory over Niger Republic in Yamoussoukro on Wednesday.

The Nigerian side controlled the match from the start, dominating possession and repeatedly putting pressure on the Nigerien defence. Their early authority was rewarded in the 16th minute when captain Harmony Chidi produced a composed finish to give the Flamingos the lead.

Nigeria continued to dictate the tempo and soon increased their advantage. Awawu Bashiru calmly converted another opportunity to put the Flamingos 2-0 ahead and leave Niger Republic facing a difficult task before half-time.

The Nigerians appeared to have scored a third before the interval, but Adegbuyi’s effort was ruled out for offside. The decision did little to change the balance of the match, with Nigeria remaining firmly in control.

Goalkeeper Onyiyechi Opara had very little to do during the opening 45 minutes as the Flamingos’ possession and defensive organisation kept Niger Republic from creating sustained pressure.

Nigeria resumed after the break with the same attacking intent. Niger Republic struggled to contain the pace, movement and creativity of the Flamingos, who continued to look for further openings rather than simply protect their advantage.

The Nigerian team remained patient in possession, moving the ball around and probing for space. Their persistence eventually produced another goal in the 83rd minute, when Ohunene Sunday finished calmly to extend the lead.

Mary Dunstan added a fourth goal shortly afterwards, increasing the pressure on a Nigerien side that was unable to cope with Nigeria’s continued attacks.

The Flamingos went on to complete a 5-0 victory, making a strong start to their campaign in the 2026 WAFU B U17 Girls’ Cup.