Nigeria will commence preparations for their crucial FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying tie against South Africa’s Bantwana on Sunday in Ikenne-Remo.
The Flamingos, who won bronze at the 2022 World Cup, were given a bye into the second round of the African qualifiers.
Nigerian players celebrate following the team’s victory during the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup match against Dominican Republic at Felix Sanchez Stadium. (Photo by Buda Mendes – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, South Africa advanced emphatically by demolishing Gabon 21-2 on aggregate, securing a 12-1 victory away and a 9-1 triumph at home.
Speaking on the importance of early preparations, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, stated:
“It is important that the Flamingos start their camping early for this second-round fixture, not just because South Africa won their first-round matches 21-2 on aggregate, but because that is the right thing to do.”
“We are aware that matches between Nigeria and South Africa are always full of heat, huge emotion on the part of players, officials, and the fans, and determination to conquer on the part of the players.”
“The Flamingos remain the best team in Africa and one of the best in the world, and they will be adequately prepared for the challenges ahead.”
South Africa’s head coach, Ntombifuthi Khumalo, has expressed concerns about his team’s readiness for the tough encounter against Nigeria.
He has called for longer preparation and reinforcements to improve the squad’s competitiveness.
“Yes, tactically they (Nigeria) are good, like us, but if you can measure when we play pound-for-pound, our players are not ready for that – but we need to reinforce on that.”
“If we can get support to get (reinforcements), because as a country, I still believe we have more quality players who deserve to be part of the team.”
“Also, we need more preparation for the next leg, with a longer camp and friendly games, that will help us to ensure we are ready for the next round.”
The first leg of the tie is scheduled to take place between March 7 and 16, 2025.
Expanded World Cup Format in Morocco 2025
This year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which will be hosted by Morocco from October 17 to November 8, 2025, marks a significant expansion.
The competition will now feature 24 teams, up from 16 in previous editions. Africa will have five representatives, including host nation Morocco.
Flamingos head coach, Bankole Olowookere, who guided the team to a third-place finish in India 2022 and the quarter-finals in 2023, has called up 30 players to begin the training camp.
Full Squad for Ikenne Training Camp
Goalkeepers
Christiana Uzoma (Edo Queens)
Onyinyechi Opara (Imo Strikers)
Maureen Enebeli (Remo Stars Ladies)
Stella Emperor (Adamawa Queens)
Defenders
Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies)
Jumai Adebayo (Naija Ratels)
Jennifer Ozoani (Greenfoot FC)
Marylyn Edem (Nasarawa Amazons)
Amblessed Ogbonnaya (Bayelsa Queens)
Ifeoma Ogoegbe (Greenfoot FC)
Temilade Fafore (Ahudiyannem Queens)
Shavih Istifanus (Jos)
Midfielders
Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens)
Muinat Rotimi (Nakamura Academy)
Charles Nwabueze (Abia Angels)
Philomena Ochanya (Nasarawa Amazons)
Waliat Rotimi (Nakamura Academy)
Azeezat Oduntan (FC Robo Queens)
Fatima Solaty (Dannaz Ladies)
Queen Joseph (Fosla Academy)
Shakirat Bashiru (New Generation SC)
Forwards
Chisom Nwachukwu (Rivers Angels)
Harmony Chidi (Imo Strikers)
Seun Fakunle (Ekiti Queens)
Peace Effiong (Rivers Angels)
Favour Iheagwaram (Abia Angels)
Christiana Sunday (Imo Strikers)
Grace Saliu (Naija Ratels)
Afensimi Omon (Adamawa Queens)
Anuoluwapo Awotidoye (Naija Ratels)
With a rich history in the competition and a solid squad, Nigeria’s Flamingos will be aiming for a strong performance as they seek qualification for Morocco 2025.
