Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, will face Venezuela in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco on Sunday, November 1, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.
The Flamingos began their Group B campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Poland but responded with a 2-0 victory over tournament debutants Puerto Rico before recording an impressive 3-1 win against defending champions North Korea.
Coach Akeem Busari’s side maintained their momentum in the Round of 16, defeating Mexico 2-1 to book their place in the last eight. Goals from Oluebube Umejiaku and Mary Dunstan secured the victory.
Venezuela, meanwhile, returned to the competition after a 10-year absence. They began their campaign with a 2-0 defeat to France but recovered with a group-stage victory over Zambia before producing one of the tournament’s notable results by defeating Germany 1-0 in the Round of 16.
The South Americans have also reached the semi-finals in their previous two appearances at the competition. Another victory would take them into the last four for a third consecutive time.
With both teams seeking a semi-final place, the Flamingos will need to maintain their defensive organisation and make the most of their opportunities against a confident Venezuelan side.
Nigeria vs Venezuela: Head-to-Head Record
Nigeria and Venezuela have not previously met at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Sunday’s quarter-final will therefore be their first meeting in the competition. Their performances in Morocco will provide the main reference point ahead of the encounter.
Predicted Flamingos Starting Line-up
The following is a predicted Nigeria starting XI and not an officially confirmed team selection.
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Jane Ijirigho |
| Right-back | Azeezat Oduntan |
| Centre-back | Ohunene Sunday |
| Centre-back | Esther Stephen |
| Left-back | Kanyinsola Yusuf |
| Central midfield | Favour Nkwocha |
| Central midfield | Mary Dunstan |
| Central midfield | Tosin Rafiu |
| Right wing | Queen Joseph |
| Striker | Oluebube Umejiaku |
| Left wing | Oluwakemi Adegbuyi |
Match Details
- Fixture: Nigeria U-17 Women vs Venezuela U-17 Women
- Competition: 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup
- Stage: Quarter-final
- Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
- Kick-off: 7:00 pm Nigerian time (6:00 pm local time)
- Venue: Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 4, Salé, Morocco
The winner will advance to the semi-finals and remain in contention for the tournament title.
