Nigeria U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, suffered a 4–1 defeat to Canada in their opening match of the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup on Sunday, www.aclsports.com reports.
At the Football Academy Mohammed VI (Pitch 1) in Salé, Morocco, the Canadians made a fast start, taking the lead in the second minute through Gabriela Istocki, who finished from close range after a fine run by Molly Hale down the left. The Flamingos responded well and drew level in the 30th minute when Queen Joseph pounced on a loose ball to make it 1–1.
After a balanced opening spell, Nigeria grew into the game and looked the better side before halftime, creating several chances but failing to convert. Captain Shakirat Moshood came close on multiple occasions, while Azeezat Oduntan and Kaosarat Olanrewaju also tested the Canadian goalkeeper Khadijah Cissé, who made key saves to keep the score level at the break.
Canada, however, regained control in the second half, with their substitutes making the difference. Melisa Kekić, who came on in the 62nd minute, restored Canada’s lead in the 73rd minute, before fellow substitute Julia Amireh added two late goals in the 80th and 86th minutes to seal the win.
Head coach Bankole Olowookere started Elizabeth Boniface in goal, with Azeezat Oduntan, Hannah Ibrahim, Jumai Adebayo, and Nofisat Tijani in defence. Shakirat Moshood, Memunat Abubakar, and Muinat Rotimi started in midfield, while Queen Joseph, Chisom Nwachukwu, and Kaosarat Olanrewaju led the attack.
In the second half, Mariam Yahaya replaced Chisom Nwachukwu (62’), Nguemo Terlumun came on for Kaosarat Olanrewaju (81’), and Fatimoh Shuaib replaced Memunat Abubakar (87’).
Nigeria finished the match with 17 attempts (six on target), while Canada had 10 attempts (five on target).
The result leaves the Flamingos bottom of Group D, while Canada lead on goal difference after France defeated Samoa 4–2 earlier in the day.
Nigeria will hope to bounce back when they face France in their next group game on Wednesday.
