Nigeria’s U17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, secured a dominant 5-1 aggregate victory over South Africa in the penultimate round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers, advancing to the final round scheduled for next month.

The Flamingos, who had already claimed a 3-1 win in the first leg, continued their impressive form with a 2-0 victory in the second leg. Harmony Chidi, the two-goal heroine from the first leg, opened the scoring in the 37th minute with a composed header from an acute angle, capitalizing on a well-delivered free kick by Shakirat Moshood.

Moshood, who also scored in the first leg, turned provider again in the 56th minute, setting up Aishat Animashaun for Nigeria’s second goal. Animashaun expertly lifted the ball over South African goalkeeper Samekelise Mthembu to seal the win.

South Africa’s Efforts Fall Short

Despite spirited performances from Zoe October, Thoriso Mphelo, Khmezi Khoza, and captain Katleho Malebana, South Africa’s Bantwana struggled to break through Nigeria’s resilient defense, marshaled by Hannah Ibrahim, Jumai Adebayo, Philomena Isaiah, and Favour Iheagwam.

Next Challenge Awaits

With this victory, the Flamingos have booked their place in the final round of the qualifiers, where they will face the winner of the fixture between Botswana and Algeria next month.

The Flamingos’ dominant display underscores their determination to secure a spot in this year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, as they continue their quest for glory on the global stage.