Nigeria’s Flamingos have reached the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after a reported 1–0 victory over Venezuela in Morocco on Sunday, November 1.
A late penalty, reportedly converted by Azeezat Oduntan in the 89th minute, proved decisive as the Nigerian side secured a place in the last four and kept their hopes of winning a maiden world title alive.
The result marks another milestone for head coach Akeem Busari and his players, who recovered from an opening-day defeat to Poland to progress through the knockout rounds.
Nigeria entered the quarter-final after victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions DPR Korea in the group stage, followed by a 2–1 win over Mexico in the Round of 16.
Venezuela, meanwhile, arrived in the last eight after eliminating Germany with a 1–0 victory in the previous round.
The quarter-final was a closely contested encounter, with Venezuela reportedly frustrating Nigeria’s attacking efforts for much of the match. With the prospect of a penalty shootout approaching, Oduntan’s late spot-kick gave the Flamingos the breakthrough.
Nigeria held on to their advantage to secure qualification for the semi-finals.
The Flamingos will now face Brazil on Wednesday, November 4, after the South Americans defeated China PR 2–1 in their quarter-final. The semi-final is scheduled to take place at Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
The achievement gives Nigeria a second semi-final appearance in the competition, following their historic third-place finish at the 2022 edition in India.
Busari’s side will now turn their attention to Brazil, with a place in the final at stake as the Flamingos continue their pursuit of a first U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
