Flamingos head coach, Bankole Olowookere.webp
The Digest:

Nigeria's Flamingos began their 2025 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup campaign with a 4-1 defeat to Canada, a result head coach Bankole Olowookere attributed to a failure to convert key opportunities. The Nigerian side equalized after an early setback but were punished by a late Canadian surge after wasting several chances to take the lead.

Key Points:
  • Canada scored an early opener in the 2nd minute through Gabriela Istocki.
  • Queen Joseph equalized for the Flamingos halfway through the first half.
  • Nigerian players missed multiple chances to take the lead, with Canada's goalkeeper making crucial saves.
  • Canada scored three late goals from Julia Amireh (2) and Melisa Kekic to seal the win.
  • Coach Olowookere stated the team paid "dearly" for not taking advantage of their first-half opportunities.
  • The Flamingos are now focusing on their next crucial group match against France.
  • The match against France is scheduled for Wednesday in Rabat, Morocco.
Despite the heavy scoreline, the Flamingos aim to learn from the defeat and channel the lessons into a stronger performance for their upcoming must-win fixture.

Sources: Daily Post Nigeria