Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, beat the Dominican Republic’s 1-0 in their final group stage match at the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
The Flamingos equaled Spain’s record of winning all three group matches with the win at the Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium.
Squad Rotation Ahead of Knockout Stage
Ahead of the quarterfinals, head coach Bankole Olowookere made several changes to his starting lineup, with the Africans already having secured their place in the round of eight.
Blessing Ifitezue, Rokibat Azeez, and Ramotallahi Kareem were given their first starts of the tournament, while key players Peace Effiong and Harmony Chidi were rested but on the bench.
The Flamingos quickly dominated the Quisqueyanas but struggled to break them down.
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Late Strike Seals the Win for Moshood
Nigeria’s standout player, Aminat Moshood, who converted a penalty against Ecuador, thought she had given her side an early lead, but her goal was disallowed.
It took until the 88 and a breakthrough after several near misses and solid goalkeeping from Jaylene Rondon.
Nigeria’s Moshood unleashed a powerful long-range strike to secure all three points and give her four goals in three games.
The Quarterfinals are looking ahead.
Alongside reigning champions Spain, Nigeria’s Flamingos are one of only two teams to have won all their group matches.
Now they will play the United States in a highly anticipated quarterfinal clash on Saturday evening.
