Flamingos reach U-17 World Cup semi-finals after late win over Venezuela

Nigeria’s Flamingos reached the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup with a 1-0 win over Venezuela in Sale, Morocco, setting up a meeting with Brazil.

Azeezat Oduntan scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 88th minute at the Mohammed VI Football Complex to send coach Akeem Busari’s team into the final four.

The result marks Nigeria’s first appearance in the semi-finals since they won bronze at the tournament in India in 2022.

The Flamingos have recovered strongly from their opening Group B defeat by Poland. They followed that loss with convincing victories against Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea and Mexico in the Round of 16 before edging past Venezuela in the quarter-finals.

Venezuela had entered the match as a serious threat, having defeated Germany in the Round of 16. They had also reached the knockout stage after a difficult group campaign that included defeats by France and Japan, although a crucial win over Zambia helped them progress.

The South Americans’ strong record at this level includes several previous semi-final appearances, but Nigeria’s form and momentum proved decisive in the contest.

The Flamingos have been driven by a number of key performers during their run in Morocco. Forward Oluebube Umejiaku is among the leading scorers in the tournament, while midfielder Mary Dunstan and the energetic Oluwakemi Adegbuyi have also made important contributions.

At the other end, goalkeeper Jane Ijirigho has provided dependable protection. The defence, including Ohunene Sunday and Esther Stephen, has grown in confidence as the competition has progressed.

Nigeria’s campaign has already included a notable victory over North Korea, a result that ended a lengthy unbeaten run for the Asian champions.

Their next opponents, Brazil, have been among the stronger teams at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and will provide a demanding test of Nigeria’s attacking creativity and defensive organisation.

The Flamingos are now one win away from reaching the final, with Busari’s young squad aiming to build on a tournament that has already produced several memorable moments.

A semi-final victory would give Nigeria the chance to pursue a first-ever title. Their progress in Morocco has also highlighted the depth of talent in Nigerian women’s youth football and reinforced their status as one of Africa’s most consistent performers on the global youth stage.

With confidence high and the squad offering a balance of attacking threat and defensive resilience, Nigeria will face Brazil determined to continue their progress at the tournament.