Ikenne, Ogun State – Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, produced a dominant performance on Saturday with a convincing 4-0 victory over Algeria in the first leg of their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying tie.
The match, held at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, saw the Flamingos take an early lead through striker Queen Joseph, who scored within the opening minute. Joseph doubled her tally in the 16th minute, after Zainab Oluwaseun had made it 2-0 in the 13th minute, leaving the Algerian side stunned and struggling to recover.
Despite Algeria’s efforts to regroup, Nigeria maintained control throughout the game. Substitute Aishat Animashaun sealed the rout with a 90th-minute goal, completing a comprehensive win that places the Flamingos in a strong position ahead of the return leg.
Speaking ahead of the match, head coach Bankole Olowookere emphasized the importance of a high-margin victory to reduce pressure going into the away fixture. His players delivered accordingly, executing the tactical game plan with precision and intensity.
Following the win, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, announced a cash reward of six million naira for the team. Of the total, two million naira was contributed by the NFF, while the remaining four million naira was donated by philanthropist and sports investor, Kunle Soname.
Mr. Gusau commended the team’s performance and urged the girls to maintain their momentum in the return leg scheduled for April 25 at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker in Blida, Algeria.
“You have made the country proud. Now go to Algeria and play your hearts out. Bring home that World Cup ticket for Nigeria,” Gusau said.
The 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will be hosted by Morocco from October 17 to November 5. With this commanding first-leg result, Nigeria is one step closer to securing a spot in the tournament.
