Nigeria U17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have secured a semi-final spot at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup thanks to a late penalty in their 1-0 victory over Venezuela on Sunday, www.aclsports.com reports.
Azeezat Oduntan converted from the penalty spot in the 89th minute at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 4, in Morocco to send the Flamingos into the semi-finals for the first time since 2022, when they claimed the bronze medal.
Head coach Akeem Busari retained the same starting XI that defeated Mexico 2-1 in the Round of 16, with Oluwakemi Adegbuyi keeping her place despite being forced off through injury in that game.
Nigeria dominated the first half and created several opportunities, but goalkeeper Valeria Rebanales made a number of saves to keep Venezuela in the game as both sides went into the break at 0-0.
Both sides continued to create chances after the restart, with Nigeria pushing for the opening goal while Venezuela also threatened going forward. Busari introduced Precious Oscar for Adegbuyi in the 57th minute, while Esther Stephen was shown a yellow card in the 65th minute following a VAR review for a potential red card, with the referee upholding the original decision.
The Flamingos were awarded a penalty after Oluebube Umejiaku was brought down inside the box at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 4, in Morocco. Following a VAR review at the pitchside monitor, the referee upheld the decision, allowing Oduntan to step up and convert from the spot to give Nigeria the lead.
Venezuela pushed for an equaliser during the seven minutes of added time, but Nigeria held firm to become the last African team standing in the competition.
Nigeria will face Brazil in the semi-finals after the South Americans came from behind to defeat China PR 2-1. Japan also booked their place in the last four with a 1-0 win over Ghana, while DPR Korea defeated the United States 3-0 to set up an all-Asian semi-final clash.
Image: CAF
