Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, took a significant step toward the final round of qualification for the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup by defeating South Africa’s Bantwana 3-1 in Pretoria on Saturday.
At the Lucas ‘Masterpieces’ Moripe Stadium, last year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup standout, Shakirat Moshood, opened the scoring in the 20th minute with a clinical finish. The Flamingos doubled their lead when prolific forward Harmony Chidi confidently converted a penalty, reinforcing Nigeria’s dominance.
South Africa pulled one back just two minutes into the second half through Malebana’s penalty, keeping their hopes alive. However, Chidi struck again in the 68th minute, restoring Nigeria’s two-goal cushion and sealing an impressive away victory.
Both teams will meet again for the return leg at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on Saturday. The aggregate winner will advance to the final qualification round, where four teams will secure a spot alongside hosts Morocco for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, set to take place from October 17 to November 5, 2024.
