Flamingos face Mexico, Chile or Australia in U-17 WWC Round of 16 Thursday
Nigeria's Flamingos secured a stunning 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea on Friday, finishing second in Group B with six points at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco. Coach Akeem Busari's side now advances to the Round of 16 where they'll face the runner-up from Group F on Thursday, October 29 in Sale.
Group F remains undecided: Spain has already topped the group with wins over Mexico and Australia. Mexico currently sits second after beating Chile 3-1, while Chile and Australia each have one point. The final group matches—Chile vs Spain and Mexico vs Australia—will determine Nigeria's opponent.
The Flamingos' progression marks a significant turnaround after their opening loss to Poland. Busari credited that defeat as the catalyst for the team's improved performances against Brazil and North Korea.
Nigeria's U-17 women have reached the quarter-finals in three of the last four editions. A win on Thursday would extend that streak and set up a potential clash with tournament favorites.
Which Group F opponent—Mexico, Chile, or Australia—gives the Flamingos the best path to the quarter-finals?