Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, began their 2025 World Cup campaign on a disappointing note, suffering a 1–4 defeat to Canada in their opening Group D match on Sunday.
The 2022 bronze medallists had been expected to challenge the North Americans but fell behind just two minutes into the game when Gabriela Istocki finished off a fine pass from Molly Hale.
Nigeria drew level in the 30th minute through Queen Joseph, who bundled the ball over the line following a goalmouth scramble at the Football Academy Mohammed VI (Pitch 1) in Salé, Morocco. The first half ended 1–1, giving the Flamingos hope of a stronger showing after the break.
However, the Canadians dominated the second half, punishing Nigeria’s defensive lapses with three goals in 13 minutes.
Melisa Kekic restored Canada’s lead in the 73rd minute, before goalkeeper Chiamaka Boniface’s handling error gifted Julia Amireh an easy tap-in to make it 3–1 in the 80th minute. Amireh struck again six minutes later, finishing off a swift counterattack to seal an emphatic victory for coach Jen Herst’s side.
The result lifted Canada to the top of Group D with three points, ahead of France, while Nigeria dropped to the bottom of the table.
Coach Bankole Olowookere’s team will hope to bounce back when they face France on Wednesday before completing their group-stage fixtures against Samoa on Saturday.
Nigeria reached the quarter-finals in the previous edition of the tournament and will now need a quick turnaround to keep their qualification hopes alive.