Flamingos Beat Venezuela 1-0 to Set Up U-17 World Cup Semi-Final Against Brazil
Nigeria’s Flamingos have advanced to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after edging Venezuela 1-0 in their quarter-final encounter on Sunday.
Azeezat Oduntan scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 89th minute to secure victory for the Nigerian side and send them into the last four.
The Flamingos had pressed for a breakthrough throughout the match, with Kanyinsola Yusuf, Mary Dunstan, Tosin Rafiu, and Oluebube Umejiaku among those who attempted to find the net.
Venezuela also created opportunities, particularly in the closing stages, but Nigeria held on despite late efforts from Astrid Granadillo and Abril Alejo.
The match ended after eight minutes of added time, with the Flamingos protecting their narrow lead to book a place in the semi-finals.
The victory extends Nigeria’s recovery from a 2-1 opening defeat to Poland. The team subsequently defeated Puerto Rico 2-0, defending champions North Korea 3-1, and Mexico 2-1 to reach the quarter-finals.
The Flamingos will face Brazil in the semi-finals on Wednesday, November 4, at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
Brazil booked their place in the last four with a 2-1 comeback victory over China in their quarter-final encounter.
