Nigeria’s Flamingos have secured a place in the semi-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 after edging Venezuela 1-0 in a tense quarter-final encounter on Sunday, Trybal News reports.
A late penalty from captain Azeezat Oduntan in the 89th minute proved decisive at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, sending Nigeria into the final four for only the second time in their history.
The victory also marks a new milestone for the Nigerian team, recording their fourth victory in regular time at a single edition of the competition for the first time.
The Flamingos controlled much of the attacking play against a resilient Venezuelan side, creating several opportunities through Oluebube Umejiaku, Mary Dunstan, Kanyinsola Yusuf and Tosin Rafiu. However, Venezuela goalkeeper Valeria Rebanales kept Nigeria at bay for much of the contest.
With extra time approaching, Nigeria finally found their breakthrough when Umejiaku was brought down inside the penalty area. Oduntan stepped forward and calmly converted from the spot to give the Flamingos the lead.
Venezuela pushed for an equaliser during eight minutes of added time, but Nigeria held firm to secure a memorable victory.
Nigeria’s journey to the semi-finals has been characterised by resilience. Following a 2-1 opening defeat to Poland, the Flamingos responded with victories over Puerto Rico (2-0) and defending champions DPR Korea (3-1) to advance from the group stage.
They subsequently defeated Mexico 2-1 in the Round of 16 before overcoming Venezuela in the quarter-finals.
The achievement represents Nigeria’s second semi-final appearance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, following their historic run in 2022, when they finished third and claimed the bronze medal.
The Flamingos will now face Brazil in the semi-finals on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, at 7:00 p.m. Nigerian time at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 3, in Rabat.
With a place in the final at stake, Nigeria will be looking to build on their impressive run and take another step towards a maiden U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
Four victories, a place in the last four and a new tournament record have already made this a historic campaign for the Flamingos. Now, their attention turns to Brazil and the opportunity to write another chapter in Nigerian women’s football history.
