The journey to the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco is off to a flying start for Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, after a commanding 4-0 victory over Algeria in the first leg of their final qualifying round at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on Saturday.
From the very first whistle, Coach Bankole Olowookere’s side showcased poise, hunger, and tactical discipline, effectively overpowering their North African opponents with a high-pressing game and clinical finishing that left no room for doubt about their intent.
The game had barely settled when Queen Joseph gave the Flamingos a dream start, scoring less than a minute into the match. The goal rattled the Algerians and ignited a flurry of attacking moves from the hosts. Just twelve minutes later, Zainab Oluwaseun doubled Nigeria’s lead with a calm, precise finish, seizing on a defensive lapse.
Barely had the visitors recovered from the second goal when Queen Joseph struck again in the 16th minute, making it 3-0 and completing her brace within the first quarter of the match. The trio of early goals effectively sealed the game, although the Flamingos maintained the pressure throughout the half, denying Algeria any real threat or momentum.
Coach Olowookere’s tactical blueprint was clear: press high, recover quickly, and exploit spaces with pace and directness. Despite easing off slightly in the second half, the Nigerian girls remained in firm control. Algeria tried to regroup and prevent further damage, but Nigeria’s backline and midfield ensured a solid defensive display.
In the final minute of regular time, substitute Aishat Animashaun, who had been introduced to inject fresh energy, put the icing on the cake with a well-taken fourth goal. It was a fitting end to a performance that Olowookere described before the game as one that should be “handsome” enough to take the pressure off before the return leg.
The Remo Stars Stadium has been something of a fortress for Nigerian women’s football teams in recent months. The Flamingos had earlier defeated South Africa 2-0 in the previous round at the same venue, while the Super Falcons also claimed a 2-0 win against Algeria in a friendly last October. Saturday’s result continues that proud trend and underlines the team’s growing confidence on home soil.
With the second leg scheduled for April 25th at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker in Blida, Algeria, the Flamingos are in pole position to secure their place in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Morocco from October 17 to November 5, 2025. A disciplined and focused performance in North Africa will seal the ticket.
Coach Olowookere, while pleased with the win, warned against complacency. “We have done well, but the job is not finished,” he noted. “We must be even more disciplined in Algeria.”
Following the win, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau announced a cash gift of ₦6 million for the team. He revealed that ₦2 million came from the NFF, while ₦4 million was generously donated by billionaire businessman Kunle Soname, who also owns the Remo Stars FC and is a passionate backer of youth football development in Nigeria.
Gusau, in his post-match speech, congratulated the girls and urged them to remain focused and give their best in Algeria. “Play your hearts out and win the World Cup ticket for Nigeria,” he charged.
As the Flamingos head into the second leg with a four-goal cushion, they carry the hopes of a nation dreaming of another appearance on the world stage. While Saturday’s performance will live long in the memory, the team knows the mission is not yet complete. The next challenge awaits in Blida, and the Flamingos are ready to soar again.
We are going all the way.