Flamingos Target Venezuela to Book FIFA U-17 World Cup Semi-Final Spot

Nigeria’s Flamingos will aim to continue their impressive run at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup when they take on Venezuela in Sunday’s quarter-final in Morocco, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.

Akeem Busari’s side have recovered impressively from their opening Group B setback against Poland, where they suffered a 2-1 defeat, to win their next two matches and advance to the knockout stages.

The Nigerian girls defeated tournament debutants Puerto Rico 2-0 before producing one of the competition’s biggest surprises with a 3-1 victory over two-time defending champions North Korea.

They carried that momentum into the Round of 16, where they edged Mexico to secure their place in the last eight and move within one victory of a semi-final appearance.

Venezuela, however, will pose another stern test. The South Americans returned to the competition after a 10-year absence, losing their opening match 2-0 to France before keeping their campaign alive with a victory over Zambia.

They produced an even bigger statement in the Round of 16, stunning Germany 1-0 to set up Sunday’s meeting with Nigeria.

Venezuela’s pedigree at the tournament makes them particularly dangerous. They reached the semi-finals in their last two appearances and will be determined to extend that record by making it three consecutive visits to the last four.

The Flamingos, who won bronze at the 2022 edition in India, will need another disciplined and determined performance to overcome the South Americans and keep their own semi-final ambitions alive.

Busari’s players will also be encouraged by their recent performances, but they must remain organised, make the most of their scoring opportunities and be prepared for Venezuela’s physical approach.

The quarter-final will take place at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 4, in Sale, Rabat, on Sunday, November 1, with kick-off scheduled for 7pm Nigerian time (6pm local time).