Morocco 2025: Nigeria’s U-17 Girls Target Redemption Against France

Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, will be aiming to bounce back when they face France in their second Group D fixture at the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco on Wednesday (today).

The Nigerian girls are seeking redemption after a disappointing 4–1 loss to Canada in their opening match, a result that left them bottom of the group with no points and a minus-three goal difference. Despite showing energy and intent in their first outing, defensive errors ved costly, with Queen Joseph netting Nigeria’s only goal of the match in Salé.

Wednesday’s clash against France, scheduled for 8pm Nigerian time, is a must-win if the Flamingos are to keep their qualification hopes alive. The encounter also revives memories of their last meeting at this level 13 years ago in Azerbaijan, where Nigeria held France to a goalless draw before losing 5–3 on penalties in the quarter-finals.

France enter the game full of confidence after defeating Samoa 4–2 in their opening match. Known for their pace, attacking flair, and tactical organisation, the French side will provide a tough challenge for Coach Bankole Olowookere’s team, who must now focus on improving their defensive structure while maintaining attacking sharpness.

Speaking ahead of the match, team captain Shakirat Moshood expressed confidence that the Flamingos will respond positively to their earlier setback.

> “We are not happy about our first game, but we are ready for France. We’ve been working very hard for this second match, and by the grace of God, we will win,” Moshood told NFF Media.

She added that the team has drawn motivation from within, vowing to make amends and make Nigerians proud.

> “We talked to ourselves and encouraged one another. We apologise for the first game, but we promise to do better. We will make Nigerians proud and happy,” she said.

In preparation for the crucial encounter, Coach Olowookere’s technical team focused the final training sessions on tightening defensive coordination, set-piece organisation, and overall game management. Monday’s training was replaced with motivational activities and video review sessions to boost morale.

Adding to the team’s motivation, Super Falcons stars Asisat Oshoala, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Joy Omewa, Taiwo Afolabi, Miracle Usani, and Folashade Ijamilusi sent video messages of encouragement to the young Flamingos, urging them to stay focused and fight for victory against France.