U-17 World Cup: Flamingos Set Up Brazil Semi-Final

Nigeria’s Flamingos have advanced to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Venezuela in their quarter-final clash on Sunday.

Azeezat Oduntan scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 89th minute to send the Nigerian side into the last four of the competition.

The Flamingos had pushed for a breakthrough throughout the encounter, with Kanyinsola Yusuf, Mary Dunstan, Tosin Rafiu and Oluebube Umejiaku among those who attempted to find the net.

Venezuela also created several scoring opportunities, particularly in the closing stages, but Nigeria maintained their defensive discipline despite late efforts from Astrid Granadillo and Abril Alejo.

The match ended after eight minutes of added time, with the Nigerian girls holding on to their slender advantage to secure qualification for the semi-finals.

The victory marks a remarkable recovery for the Flamingos following their 2-1 opening defeat to Poland.

The Nigerian team bounced back with a 2-0 win over Puerto Rico before defeating defending champions North Korea 3-1 and Mexico 2-1 to reach the quarter-finals.

Their latest victory sets up a semi-final encounter against Brazil on Wednesday, November 4, at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.

Brazil booked their place in the last four after recording a 2-1 comeback victory over China in their quarter-final fixture.

The Flamingos will now aim to secure a place in the final as they continue their campaign for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.