Nigeria’s Flamingos struggled in their Group D opener at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, suffering a heavy 4-1 loss to Canada on Sunday in Morocco.
Canada dominated the match, with Julia Amireh scoring twice and Gabriela Istocki and Melisa Kekic adding one goal each. Queen Joseph managed to pull one back for the Flamingos.
Flamingos struggle in U-17 WWC opener
The Canadians started strongly, with Istocki netting just two minutes into the game. Azeezat Oduntan came close for Nigeria in the 15th minute but couldn’t find the target.
Nigeria eventually equalised in the 30th minute thanks to Joseph. Canada nearly regained the lead nine minutes later, but Istocki missed a clear chance.
Early in the second half, the Flamingos had two promising opportunities in the 50th and 54th minutes but failed to capitalise. Shortly after, a VAR review for a possible penalty to Canada was not given.
Second half rout seals Canada victory
However, Canada regained the lead in the 73rd minute through Kekic, and Amireh extended the advantage to 3-1 with 10 minutes left. Amireh added a second goal in the 84th minute to seal a 4-1 victory.
Nigeria will aim to recover when they face France in their second Group D match on Wednesday, October 22. The French started their campaign with a 4-2 win over Samoa.
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