Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team booked their place at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup with a disciplined 0-0 away draw in Blida, preserving a 4-0 first-leg cushion to seal a 4-0 aggregate victory and become one of Africa’s five representatives in Morocco this October and November. Their composed display under wintry conditions underscored a blend of tactical maturity and attacking intent that has come to define the Flamingos’ march to Morocco.
Match Recap
Braving near-freezing temperatures on the outskirts of Algiers, the Flamingos absorbed sustained pressure from Algeria’s home side yet emerged unscathed, securing the goalless stalemate required for qualification. Nigeria’s back line remained resolute, repelling every Fennecs foray, while quick counter-attacks tested the hosts late into the second half.
First-Leg Firepower
The foundation for qualification was laid two weeks earlier in Ikenne, where the Flamingos lit up the first leg with a 4-0 trouncing of Algeria. Queen Joseph’s clinical brace, coupled with decisive strikes from Zainab Raji and substitute Aisha Animashaun, established a commanding lead that proved unassailable .
Road to Morocco
With the goalless draw in Algeria confirming their status, the Flamingos join hosts Morocco and four other African sides in the expanded 24-team finals, scheduled from 17 October to 8 November 2025. This marks the first time the tournament will feature 24 nations, reflecting FIFA’s drive to broaden participation at youth level.
Historical Prowess
Since the inaugural U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2008, Nigeria has only missed one edition—Uruguay 2018—underscoring the country’s enduring strength in this age category. The Flamingos’ qualification continues a proud tradition that has seen them reach the podium in 2022 and consistently challenge the world’s best.
Looking Ahead
Armed with a blend of tactical discipline and attacking flair, Nigeria will arrive in Morocco as one of the tournament favourites from Africa. Their unbeaten record across qualifying fixtures speaks to a squad brimming with confidence and hungry for global glory. As preparations ramp up ahead of October’s kick-off, the Flamingos carry Nigeria’s hopes of youth football excellence onto the world stage.