Nigeria’s Flamingos have sensationally marched into the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over Venezuela in Morocco on Sunday, November 1, setting up a mouthwatering showdown against South American powerhouse Brazil, Sports247.ng reports.
An 89th-minute penalty from A. Oduntan proved decisive as the Nigerian youngsters demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination to overcome a stubborn Venezuelan side and keep their dreams of winning a maiden world title alive.
The victory represents another major achievement for head coach Hakeem Busari and his players, who have now recorded four consecutive victories after recovering from their opening defeat to Poland.
Nigeria entered the quarter-final encounter full of confidence following impressive victories over Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea and Mexico, but Venezuela presented a different challenge.
The South Americans, who sensationally eliminated Germany 1-0 in the Round of 16, frustrated Nigeria’s attacking efforts with disciplined defending and determined performances.
Both teams battled through a tense opening half without finding the breakthrough, leaving the encounter goalless at the interval.
Busari made tactical adjustments after the restart, introducing fresh attacking options as the Flamingos intensified their search for a winner.
With the match seemingly heading towards extra time, Nigeria finally found the breakthrough in the 89th minute when Oduntan stepped forward to convert a crucial penalty, sparking celebrations among the Nigerian contingent.
The Flamingos subsequently defended their slender advantage until the final whistle, securing a historic semi-final ticket.
Nigeria will now confront Brazil, who defeated China 2-1 in their quarter-final encounter, in a blockbuster semi-final scheduled for Wednesday, November 4.
The victory also takes Nigeria into the last four for the second time, following their historic bronze-medal achievement at the 2022 tournament in India.
For Busari’s youngsters, the mission is far from complete, with Brazil now standing between the Flamingos and their first-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final.
From opening-match disappointment to four consecutive victories, Nigeria’s fearless Flamingos are now just one win away from a historic World Cup final!