Nigeria’s U17 Women’s Side Shows Grit in Final Tune‑Up Before World Cup
In a pulsating pre‑tournament showdown in Casablanca, Nigeria’s Flamingos U17 secured a 3–2 victory over Paraguay in a match that had drama, defensive lapses and individual brilliance. The win ends their warm‑up campaign on a high and sends a message: this Nigerian side will not be underestimated.
How The Match Unfolded
From the first whistle, the Flamingos attacked with purpose. In the 2nd minute, goalkeeper Elizabeth Boniface launched a long ball that found captain Shakirat Moshood, who laid it off for Mariam Yahaya, who dinked over the Paraguayan keeper to open the scoring.
Paraguay responded in the 15th minute when a defensive error by Christiana Sunday gifted the visitors an equaliser. Nigeria regained control just before the break. Yahaya scored in the 44th minute and added another in the 45th (or just before halftime) with the assistance of Kaosarat Olanrewaju.
In the second half, Nigeria held the edge. Substitute goalkeeper Sylvia Echefu made a key save in the 69th minute to preserve the lead. Paraguay pulled one back late due to another defensive lapse, but could not find an equaliser.
The Decisive Moment
While Nigeria played well across both halves, the decisive edge came late in the first half when Yahaya struck twice in quick succession, converting Nigeria’s pressure into a two-goal advantage. That cushion proved critical as Paraguay pushed hard in the second half. Moreover, Echefu’s save in the 69th minute preserved that margin and kept momentum in favor of the Flamingos.
What This Means For Both Teams
For Nigeria, this result boosts confidence going into the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. It shows they can respond after conceding, that their attack has potency and that their squad depth (e.g. substitution of keeper) is trustworthy. This win also ensures they finish their preparations on a positive note heading to Rabat.
For Paraguay, despite a spirited challenge, defensive lapses and failure to keep up momentum cost them. This match will give them lessons on resilience and closing out matches.
Reaction and What’s Next
Coach Bankole Olowookere will take satisfaction in what he described as a match of “pace, precision, and plenty of lessons” for his side. He will hope his players carry that attacking confidence and mental toughness into the tournament proper.
Next up for Nigeria: the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup kicks off on 17 October in Morocco. Nigeria is drawn in Group D, and will open against Canada on 19 October, before facing France and finally Samoa. Paraguay will return to further tune‑ups before their own campaign begins, armed with lessons from this narrow defeat.
Stay with Hot Sports Scoops for exclusive Nigerian-focused sports coverage — home and abroad