Flamingos Beat South Africa to Reach Final Round of U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

Nigeria sealed a dominant 5-1 aggregate victory over South Africa to advance to the final round of the qualifiers for the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, set for next month.

Having won the first leg 3-1 away, the Flamingos tightened their grip on the tie in the return leg as Harmony Chidi, who scored twice in the opener, calmly headed home in the 37th minute from a tight angle. The goal followed a pinpoint free-kick delivery from Shakirat Moshood, who had also found the net in the first leg.

Moshood turned provider again in the 56th minute, setting up Aishat Animashaun, who lofted the ball expertly over goalkeeper Samekelise Mthembu to double Nigeria’s lead on the day.

Despite spirited performances from Zoe October, Thoriso Mphelo, Khmezi Khoza, and captain Katleho Malebana, South Africa’s Bantwana found no way past Nigeria’s resolute backline, marshalled by Hannah Ibrahim, Jumai Adebayo, Philomena Isaiah, and Favour Iheagwam.

The Flamingos now march into the final round of the qualification campaign, where they will face the winner of the Botswana vs. Algeria tie.