Nigeria's Flamingos commenced their 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup campaign with an unfavorable outcome, suffering a 2-1 loss to Poland on Saturday.
The Nigerian team experienced the setback during their opening Group B match at the Women's Football Complex in Morocco, which means they must win their remaining group games in the competition.
Poland established their lead in the 33rd minute when Wiktoria Skrzypczak successfully converted a penalty kick, providing the European nation with a 1-0 lead entering halftime. The advantage compelled Nigeria to intensify their efforts following the resumption of play.
Upon returning for the second half, the Flamingos pursued an equalizing goal; however, Poland extended their advantage when Natalia Skrok netted in the 66th minute, establishing a 2-0 lead.
The Flamingos narrowed the gap to 2-1 in the 79th minute through Oluebube Umejiaku's goal, representing Nigeria's sole score; though this contribution proved insufficient to prevent their opening-match defeat.
The Flamingos will play Puerto Rico on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in their second group-stage encounter.
The match offers the Nigerian squad an opportunity to accumulate their first points in the competition before confronting defending champions, Korea DPR on Friday, October 23.
2026 U-17 World Cup: Nigeria's Flamingos suffer 2-1 defeat to Poland