Flamingos fall to Canada in 2024 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup opener
Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, endured a tough start to their 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup campaign with a 4–1 defeat to Canada on Sunday at the Football Academy Mohammed VI (Pitch 1) in Salé, Morocco.
The Canadians made a blistering start, opening the scoring in the second minute through Gabriela Istocki, who slotted home from close range after a fine run and cross from Molly Hale. The Flamingos grew into the game and were rewarded in the 30th minute when Queen Joseph reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box to level the score.
Nigeria finished the first half as the stronger side, creating several opportunities to take the lead. Captain Shakirat Moshood was lively in midfield, while Azeezat Oduntan and Kaosarat Olanrewaju forced key saves from Canadian goalkeeper Khadijah Cissé. Despite their dominance, the Flamingos couldn’t find a second goal before the break.
Canada regained control in the second half, with their substitutes proving decisive. Melisa Kekić, introduced in the 62nd minute, restored their lead in the 73rd minute. Julia Amireh then came off the bench to score twice in quick succession in the 80th and 86th minutes, sealing an emphatic victory for the North Americans.
Head coach Bankole Olowookere handed the starting gloves to Elizabeth Boniface, with a backline of Azeezat Oduntan, Hannah Ibrahim, Jumai Adebayo, and Nofisat Tijani. Shakirat Moshood, Memunat Abubakar, and Muinat Rotimi marshaled the midfield, while Queen Joseph, Chisom Nwachukwu, and Kaosarat Olanrewaju led the attack.
Substitutions saw Mariam Yahaya replace Nwachukwu (62’), Nguemo Terlumun come on for Olanrewaju (81’), and Fatimoh Shuaib take the place of Abubakar (87’).
Nigeria registered 17 shots six on target,compared to Canada’s 10 attempts with five on target.
The result leaves the Flamingos bottom of Group D, while Canada top the standings on goal difference ahead of France, who earlier defeated Samoa 4–2.
The Flamingos will aim to bounce back when they face France in their second group match on Wednesday.
