Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, suffered a tough start to their 2025 World Cup campaign after falling 4-1 to Canada at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Salé on Sunday night. The result marked their heaviest ever opening day loss at the tournament.
Canada wasted no time, striking inside two minutes through Gabriela Istocki, who punished a lapse in Nigeria’s defence with a close range finish. The Flamingos regrouped quickly, pressing high and showing more intensity. Their effort paid off in the 30th minute when Queen Joseph pounced on a rebound to level the score.
Nigeria looked the sharper side before halftime, dominating possession and creating several opportunities. Despite recording more shots and corners, they could not find a breakthrough, leaving the match finely poised at the interval.
The second half swung in Canada’s favour as they took control of midfield. Melisa Kekic restored the lead in the 73rd minute, and defensive errors from Nigeria allowed J. Amireh to score twice late on, sealing a famous win for the North Americans.
The defeat ended Nigeria’s unbeaten run in opening World Cup games since 2016 and handed Canada their first ever victory over the Flamingos. With France up next on Wednesday and Samoa later in the group, Nigeria must bounce back quickly to revive their chances of progressing.
