Nigeria’s U-17 girls, the Flamingos, face a crucial test on Wednesday as they take on France in their second Group D match at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat, Morocco.
The team is under pressure to bounce back after a disappointing 4–1 defeat to Canada in their opening game, a result that leaves them bottom of the table with no points and a minus-three goal difference. France, on the other hand, began their campaign in fine form, beating Samoa 4–2 to go top of the group.
The encounter holds added significance for Nigeria, as it rekindles memories of their last meeting with France 13 years ago in Azerbaijan. That quarter-final clash ended 0–0 before France advanced 5–3 on penalties. For many fans and players, this fixture represents unfinished business.
Coach Bankole Olowookere’s side must avoid defeat to keep their hopes alive. A loss would end their World Cup campaign, while a draw or win would keep them in contention ahead of their final group match against Samoa.
Analysts say the Flamingos must tighten their defence and maintain better discipline in transitions after defensive errors cost them heavily against Canada.
The match kicks off at 8 p.m. (Nigerian time) at the Football Academy Mohammed VI Pitch 1 in Rabat, where Nigeria will be playing not just for points, but for pride and redemption.
Meanwhile, the Super Falcons are intensifying preparations ahead of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying clash against Benin Republic.
Head Coach Justin Madugu remains optimistic despite losing key midfielder Jennifer Echegini to a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Paris Saint-Germain on Monday. Echegini, who scored the winning goal in Nigeria’s AFCON final victory over Morocco earlier this year, will miss both legs of the qualifier.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, also of PSG, is expected to join the squad in Lomé alongside several foreign-based players, including Osinachi Ohale, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Michelle Alozie, Deborah Abiodun, Esther Okoronkwo, and Shukurat Oladipo.
The first leg is scheduled for Friday at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo, while the return leg will take place next Tuesday at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
The Super Falcons are seeking to secure their place at the 2026 Women’s AFCON as they aim to extend their dominance on the continent.
