U17 Women’s World Cup: Flamingos stumble to woeful 4-1 defeat to Canada
Nigeria’s U17 girls, the Flamingos, began their FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2025 campaign on a disappointing note, falling 4-1 to Canada in their opening Group D match on Sunday in Salé, near Rabat.
Canada took the lead inside two minutes when Gabriela Istocki finished off Molly Hale’s strong run down the left. The early goal jolted Nigeria into action, with captain Shakirat Moshood twice testing goalkeeper Khadijah Cisse, while Chisom Nwachukwu and Kaosarat Olanrewaju also went close.
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The Flamingos’ persistence paid off in the 30th minute when Queen Joseph capitalised on a rebound after Cisse failed to hold Olanrewaju’s shot, bundling in the equaliser to make it 1-1.
However, Canada regained control in the second half, punishing defensive lapses.
Substitute Melisa Kekic restored their lead in the 73rd minute, before another substitute, Julia Amireh, struck twice late on, first in the 80th minute after goalkeeper Elizabeth Boniface spilt a loose ball, and again six minutes later with a composed finish to seal a commanding 4-1 victory.
The result leaves the Flamingos at the bottom of Group D, while Canada top the standings after an impressive attacking display.
Nigeria will look to bounce back when they face France on Wednesday evening, needing a positive result to keep their qualification hopes alive.
