Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, began their FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup campaign on a rough note, falling 4-1 to Canada in their opening Group D match in Salé, Morocco
The encounter at the Football Academy Mohammed VI saw Canada take an early lead just two minutes into the game when Gabriela Istocki finished off a brilliant run from Molly Hale on the left flank.
Despite the early setback, the Flamingos fought back bravely and took control of the midfield. Captain Shakirat Moshood came close to equalizing with two powerful attempts—one stopped by goalkeeper Khadijah Cisse and another that flew inches over the bar.
Nigeria’s pressure finally paid off in the 30th minute when Queen Joseph pounced on a rebound after Cisse failed to handle a long-range shot from Kaosarat Olanrewaju, leveling the score at 1-1.
The second half, however, belonged to Canada. Substitute Melisa Kekic restored her team’s lead in the 73rd minute after outpacing her marker and firing low past Nigerian goalkeeper Elizabeth Boniface.
In the 80th minute, Boniface’s fumble allowed another substitute, Julia Amireh, to slot home Canada’s third goal. Amireh then completed her brace six minutes later with a composed finish that sealed a commanding 4-1 victory for the North Americans.
The Flamingos will aim to recover when they face France in their second group game on Wednesday evening.
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