Puerto Rico’s Rivera targets Nigeria response after North Korea defeat

Puerto Rico midfielder Caroline Rivera believes her side can still make a strong impression at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup despite their 6-0 opening-match loss to North Korea.

Puerto Rico will face Nigeria’s Flamingos on Tuesday in a crucial Group fixture, with both teams seeking the victory needed to keep their hopes of progressing in the competition alive.

The Caribbean side endured a difficult start to the tournament in Morocco, being comfortably beaten by North Korea on Saturday. However, Rivera felt Puerto Rico showed enough improvement after half-time to give them confidence ahead of their next match.

Speaking to FIFA.com, Rivera said the experience of facing North Korea could help the team develop.

“It was very challenging, obviously, going against the best team in the world. I feel like we can definitely develop from this game,” she said.

Rivera produced a determined individual display despite the heavy defeat and believes Puerto Rico must reproduce the attitude they showed in the second half when they meet Nigeria.

“They’re amazing players, but we’ve learned that if we play like we did in the second half, we can go far. Collectively, we can all evaluate and get better,” she added.

The match with the Flamingos is therefore a significant test for Puerto Rico, who need to respond immediately after their opening setback. Nigeria are also under pressure after beginning their campaign with a 2-1 defeat by Poland.

Neither side can afford another loss if they are to maintain realistic hopes of moving on in the tournament. A win on Tuesday would provide a major boost to either team’s prospects, while defeat would leave their progression hopes in serious danger.