Nigeria’s 17-year-old midfielder, Favour Chiamaka Nkwocha, has been named Player of the Match following the Flamingos’ narrow 1-0 victory over Venezuela in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco on Sunday.
Sports247 reports that the FC Robo Queens midfielder earned a starting role under head coach Akeem Busari and played her part as Nigeria secured a place in the semi-finals of the tournament.
Born on April 27, 2009, Nkwocha is regarded as one of the emerging talents in Nigerian women’s football. She currently features for FC Robo Queens in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), where she continues to build her career.
The youngster was involved in Nigeria’s midfield during a closely contested encounter at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, helping the Flamingos maintain their competitive edge against their South American opponents.
After a goalless first half, Nigeria eventually found the breakthrough in the 89th minute when captain Azeezat Oduntan converted a penalty to seal a crucial victory.
The result confirmed Nigeria’s place in the last four, keeping their hopes of lifting the title alive.
The Flamingos will now face Brazil on Wednesday, November 4, with a place in the final at stake.
For Nkwocha, the Player of the Match recognition marks another important milestone in her development, underlining her growing influence and the valuable experience she is gaining on the international stage.
Her achievement also highlights the contribution of home-based talents to Nigeria’s youth national teams as the Flamingos continue their impressive campaign in Morocco.
