Flamingos reach U-17 World Cup semi-finals as NSC pledges Nigeria’s support

Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC) has backed the Flamingos after their 1-0 victory over Venezuela secured a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Azeezat Oduntan scored from the penalty spot in the 89th minute to settle a closely contested quarter-final on Sunday. The Nigeria captain converted after Oluebube Umejiaku was brought down inside the area at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Sale.

The result was Nigeria’s fourth victory of the tournament, setting a new national record for the most wins in a single edition of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

In a statement following the match, the NSC said: “Nigeria’s U-17 Women’s National Team, the Flamingos, have advanced to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Venezuela.”

The commission also praised the team and confirmed the next challenge facing the players.

“Captain Azeezat Oduntan converted an 89th-minute penalty to secure the decisive goal after Oluebube Umejiaku was brought down inside the penalty area at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Sale,” the statement added.

“The victory marks Nigeria’s fourth win in the competition, setting a new national record for the most victories by the country in a single edition of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

“The Flamingos will now face Brazil in Wednesday’s semi-final as they continue their pursuit of a historic place in the final.

“Congratulations to the players and technical crew. Nigeria stands behind you.”

The semi-final appearance is only the second in the history of the Flamingos’ participation at the U-17 World Cup. Their previous qualification for the last four came in 2022 in India.

Nigeria finished that tournament in third place after defeating Germany in a penalty shootout. The play-off was required after the match ended 3-3 following regulation time.

The Flamingos are now the only African team remaining in the 2026 competition. Ghana’s campaign ended on Sunday when they were beaten 1-0 by Japan in their quarter-final.

Nigeria will meet Brazil on Wednesday for a place in the final, having already set a new national record for victories in one edition of the tournament.