Nigeria’s Flamingos got their 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign back on track with a clinical 2-0 victory over tournament debutants Puerto Rico in their second Group B fixture at the Mohammed VI Football Complex on Tuesday.
Following a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Poland in their opening match last Saturday, head coach Akeem Busari made key adjustments to restore composure in midfield and defensive stability.
The tactical tweak paid immediate dividends as the former bronze medallists took control of proceedings from the opening whistle.
Forward Oluwakemi Adegbuyi opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 25th minute, finishing brilliantly after early pressure from the Flamingos to give her side a deserved advantage.
Nigeria controlled the tempo throughout the contest, pressing high up the pitch and frustrating Puerto Rico’s attempts to build attacks from the back. The Nigerian backline delivered a disciplined, composed performance to seal a comfortable clean sheet.
In the dying moments of the match, substitute Precious Oscar sealed the victory by doubling Nigeria’s lead in the 93rd minute to ensure all three points were safely bagged.
The victory earns the Flamingos their first three points of the tournament, reinvigorating their ambition of reaching the Round of 16. Attention now turns to Friday’s decisive final group encounter against Asian powerhouse DPR Korea.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected]