Flamingos of NIgeria Face Brazil in U-17 World Cup Semi- Final Today

Nigeria’s Flamingos will be aiming to make history when they face Brazil in the semi-final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco on Wednesday.

The Nigerian youngsters are chasing their first-ever appearance in the final of the competition after securing a place in the last four with a narrow 1-0 victory over Venezuela on Sunday.

Captain Azeezat Oduntan scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 89th minute after Oluebube Umejiaku was brought down inside the box.

The victory marked only the second time Nigeria have reached the semi-final stage of the tournament. Their previous appearance came in 2022 in India, where they eventually finished with the bronze medal.

Coach Akeem Busari’s team will now face a determined Brazilian side that booked its semi-final ticket after defeating China 2-1 in the quarter-finals.

Brazil had earlier survived a difficult encounter against Poland in the round of 16, progressing through an 8-7 penalty shootout following an entertaining 3-3 draw.

The South American side have demonstrated their attacking strength throughout the tournament, with nine different players getting on the scoresheet. Greise Kelly is currently their leading scorer with three goals.

Brazil coach Rilany Silva has acknowledged the challenge Nigeria will present, describing the Flamingos as a physically strong team capable of maintaining their intensity throughout the match.

Silva expects her players to face a demanding contest, particularly against a Nigerian side known for its energy and physical approach.

Meanwhile, Busari has urged his players to remain focused and determined as they prepare for the crucial encounter.

Following the victory over Venezuela, the Nigerian coach expressed confidence in his team's ability to deliver another strong performance.

“We want to give our best in the next match and show everyone what we can do,” Busari said.

The semi-final is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, November 4, at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 3, in Rabat, Morocco.

Kick-off is set for 6pm Moroccan time, which is 7pm in Nigeria, as the Flamingos seek to secure a historic place in the final.