Nigeria’s Flamingos head coach, Bankole Olowookere, has expressed pride and delight after his side booked a place in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2025, saying the players are determined to stay longer in the competition.
Nigeria defeated Samoa 4–0 on Saturday at the Football Academy Mohammed VI (Pitch 3) in Salé, a result that confirmed their progression as one of the best third-placed teams in the group stage.
Read Also: ‘Gabon Are Impressive’: Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Praises Aubameyang-Led Squad Ahead of World Cup Playoff Clash
Goals from Queen Joseph (13’, 34’), Shakirat Moshood (28’, pen), and Azeezat Oduntan (67’) sealed the comfortable win, ensuring Nigeria bounced back after a difficult start to the tournament with earlier results against Canada and France.
Reflecting on the team’s qualification, Coach Olowookere said the victory meant a lot for his players and for Nigerians everywhere.
“We give glory to God Almighty for bringing us this far,” he said. “Reaching the Round of 16 is a big plus for us and for our supporters all over the world. The girls are happy and they don’t want to go home — they want to continue playing and competing.”
The coach also praised Samoa’s fighting spirit, noting that the encounter was a good test for his team.
“This is football — every team comes to compete. Samoa gave us a good fight, and that helps us prepare better for the next stage,” he added. “Even though they lost, they showed potential and individual talent. Those challenges are good for our players to learn from.”
With the result, Nigeria advance to face Italy in the Round of 16, as they aim to continue their quest for a maiden U17 Women’s World Cup title.
