Nigeria’s Flamingos have booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco after defeating Mexico 2–1 in the Round of 16.
Goals from Oluebube Umejiaku and Mary Dunstan secured the victory for Nigeria on Thursday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, keeping alive the team’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals for the second time in four years.
Umejiaku broke the deadlock in the 40th minute, giving the Flamingos a crucial lead before half-time.
Nigeria continued to press after the break and doubled their advantage in the 71st minute when Dunstan found the net, putting the West African side in a strong position to advance.
Mexico mounted a late challenge, with Emily Delgado scoring in stoppage time in the 90th minute. However, the Flamingos held on to secure a place among the tournament’s final eight teams.
The victory follows Nigeria’s impressive 3–1 win over defending champions North Korea in their final group-stage match. That result ended North Korea’s run of 18 consecutive matches without a defeat in regulation time at the competition, dating back to 2018.
Nigeria began their Group B campaign with a 2–1 defeat to Poland but responded with a 2–0 victory over Puerto Rico before overcoming North Korea. The Flamingos finished second in the group with six points from three matches.
Mexico also reached the knockout stage after finishing second in Group F with six points, following victories over Chile and Australia.
Nigeria’s latest triumph strengthens their ambition to improve on their previous performances at the tournament. The Flamingos won bronze at the 2022 edition in India after reaching the semi-finals.
Venezuela await in the quarter-finals
The Nigerian side will face Venezuela on Sunday, November 1, at the Mohammed VI Football Academy, Pitch 4, in Salé. Kick-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. Nigerian time.
Venezuela booked their quarter-final place by defeating Germany, the reigning European champions, in a major upset.
The South Americans will provide another demanding test for Nigeria, who must combine attacking efficiency with defensive discipline to progress.
With Mexico now behind them, the Flamingos will focus on securing a semi-final place and moving one step closer to the ultimate prize in Morocco.
