Nigeria's Flamingos have booked their place in the semi finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup after defeating Venezuela 1–0 in a tense quarter final encounter in Morocco on Sunday.
Captain Azeezat Oduntan scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 89th minute, ending Nigeria's wait for a breakthrough and sending the team into the last four for the first time since their bronze medal campaign in 2022.
Oduntan's Late Penalty Settles the Contest
The Flamingos created several chances but struggled to get past Venezuela's goalkeeper, Valeria Rebanales, who made key saves to keep her team in contention.
Nigeria continued to push after the interval, with both sides searching for the opening goal. However, Venezuela's defensive organisation made it difficult for the Nigerian attackers to find the space needed to finish their chances.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the closing stages.
Forward Oluebube Umejiaku was brought down inside Venezuela's penalty area, prompting the referee to award Nigeria a spot kick. VAR reviewed the decision, but the referee upheld the penalty.
Captain Oduntan stepped forward and calmly converted in the 89th minute to give Nigeria a crucial 1–0 lead.
Venezuela pushed for an equaliser during added time, but Nigeria held firm to protect their advantage and secure qualification.
Nigeria Return to the U17 Women's World Cup Semi Finals
The victory marks Nigeria's return to the semi final stage of the competition for the first time since 2022, when the Flamingos finished third in India.
Their journey in Morocco has included a recovery from an opening 2–1 defeat to Poland.
Nigeria responded with victories over Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea and Mexico before overcoming Venezuela in the quarter finals.
The result also makes Nigeria the last African team remaining in the 2026 tournament.
Having secured a place among the final four, the Flamingos will now have an opportunity to move closer to winning their first U-17 Women's World Cup title.
Flamingos Set Up Semi Final Clash With Brazil
Nigeria's next challenge will be against Brazil, who booked their semi final place with a 2–1 victory over China in their quarter final encounter.
The two teams will meet on Wednesday, November 4, at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
It will be an important test for the Flamingos as they attempt to reach the final and continue their impressive run in the competition.
For now, Oduntan's late penalty has given Nigerian football supporters another reason to celebrate.
The Flamingos have survived a difficult quarter final and remain two victories away from lifting the trophy.