FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup 2026: Flamingos beat Puerto Rico to secure first win
Nigeria’s Flamingos claimed their first victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco after defeating Puerto Rico 2-0 in their Group B clash in Rabat.
The Nigerian side made an energetic start, pressing high and forcing Puerto Rico into defensive errors. Their quick passing and direct attacking approach created several openings during the early stages of the match.
Nigeria eventually broke the deadlock in the 25th minute. Oluwakemi Adegbuyi converted Queen Joseph’s assist with composure to give the Flamingos a deserved lead.
The goal strengthened Nigeria’s control of the contest, with the team enjoying long spells of possession before the interval. Puerto Rico struggled to maintain pressure and found it difficult to deal with the Flamingos’ movement in the final third.
Nigeria continued to search for a second goal after the restart. Queen Joseph, Tosin Rafiu and Favour Nkwocha all threatened to extend the lead, although Puerto Rico made efforts to respond by reshaping its attack.
Flamingos coach Hakeem Busari introduced Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku in the 67th minute, bringing fresh energy to the Nigerian attack as the match entered its closing stages.
The decisive moment arrived in the 90th minute. Substitute Precious Oscar rose to head home a cross from Kemi Adegbuyi, securing Nigeria’s second goal and effectively putting the result beyond doubt.
The Flamingos remained composed during six minutes of added time to preserve their clean sheet and collect three valuable points.
The result leaves Nigeria in a strong position in Group B, particularly after North Korea recorded a 6-1 victory over Poland in the other group fixture. That result could prove important for the Flamingos’ goal difference as they prepare to face North Korea on Friday.
Victory over Puerto Rico also provides a significant boost to Nigeria’s hopes of progressing to the knockout stage, with the team aiming to build on its bronze-medal finish at the 2022 edition.
