Nigeria's Flamingos secure spot at 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup

Nigeria’s under‑17 women’s team, the Flamingos, qualified for the 2026 FIFA U‑17 Women’s World Cup after a 5‑3 win over Benin Republic in the second‑leg qualifier in Lomé, Togo. The victory gave an 8‑5 aggregate triumph, following a 3‑2 first‑leg success in Ikenne, Ogun State. Coach Akeem Busari praised the side’s attacking spirit, and striker Queen Joseph secured a hat‑trick, scoring in the 20th, 54th (penalty) and 76th minutes.

The Flamingos now join the 24‑team tournament in Morocco, scheduled for 17 October–7 November 2026. The win continues Nigeria’s strong record in African women’s youth football, having previously posted dominant aggregate wins in earlier qualifying rounds.