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Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, will kick off their campaign at this year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup on Sunday with a Group D clash against Canada.
This encounter marks the second time the two sides will meet at this level, following their previous 1–1 draw.
The team arrived in Rabat brimming with confidence after an intensive preparation phase that featured several competitive warm-up matches.
During their build-up, the Flamingos recorded double-digit victories, demonstrating fluid attacking play, sharp movement, and creativity — all trademarks of coach Bankole Olowookere’s “high-pressing football” approach.
The squad also showed resilience and adaptability, edging Paraguay 3–2 after a narrow defeat to New Zealand in one of their preparatory fixtures.
These performances have boosted morale within the camp, as the players look to translate their form into a winning start on the world stage.
As they face a disciplined Canadian side, the Flamingos will need to maintain composure, tactical focus, and clinical finishing.
Canada, known for their physicality, organisation, and compact defensive structure, have historically been challenging opponents for African teams in youth competitions.
Sunday’s fixture will therefore serve as an early test of Nigeria’s ability to withstand physical pressure while sustaining their attacking rhythm.
Nigeria’s aspirations extend well beyond group-stage qualification. After their impressive third-place finish in India in 2022 and a quarterfinal appearance in the last edition in the Dominican Republic, the Flamingos are determined to surpass past achievements.
A strong opening performance against Canada would signal their readiness to compete for top honours in Group D, which also features France and Samoa.
