U-17 WWC: Flamingos Clinch 2-1 Win Over Mexico to Reach Quarter-Finals

Nigeria’s Flamingos have booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Mexico 2-1 in their Round of 16 encounter in Morocco.

The Nigerian youngsters secured the victory on Thursday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, near Rabat, to keep their hopes of winning the competition alive.

Oluebube Umejiaku opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 40th minute with an impressive individual effort, taking the ball past three Mexican defenders before slotting it beyond goalkeeper Ania Lopez.

The Flamingos maintained their attacking momentum after the break and doubled their advantage in the 71st minute through Mary Dunstan, who finished from close range to register her first goal of the tournament.

Mexico pushed forward in search of a comeback and eventually reduced the deficit in the 10th minute of stoppage time through Camila Campos.

The late goal created a tense finish, but Nigeria held on to secure the 2-1 victory and advance to the last eight.

The result follows Nigeria’s impressive 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea in their final group-stage match, which secured their qualification for the knockout round.

The Flamingos had earlier lost 2-1 to Poland before recording a 2-0 victory over Puerto Rico.

Nigeria will now face Venezuela in the quarter-finals on Sunday, November 1, with a place in the semi-finals at stake. Venezuela advanced after defeating Germany in their Round of 16 encounter.

The Flamingos, who won bronze at the 2022 edition in India, will be hoping to surpass that achievement as they continue their campaign in Morocco.