The Flamingos, Nigeria’s U-17 women’s football team, have unveiled a 30-player squad ahead of their highly anticipated FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers against South Africa’s Bantwana.
Head coach Bankole Olowookere has assembled a formidable squad as the team aims to secure a spot in the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, set to be held in Morocco from October 17 to November 8.
Flamingos Begin Camp in Ikenne
To ensure thorough preparation, the Flamingos will begin their training camp at the Remo Stars Sports Institute in Ikenne-Remo on Sunday. The two-legged fixture between Nigeria and South Africa will take place between March 7-16, determining one of Africa’s representatives at the global tournament.
With the tournament expanding to 24 teams and now held annually, Nigeria is aiming not only for qualification but also for a stronger performance after finishing third in 2022.
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Nigeria’s U-17 World Cup Record and Road to Qualification
Nigeria has a rich history in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, having participated in every edition except one since its inception in 2008. Their best performances came in 2010, 2012, and 2014, reaching the quarterfinals. In 2022, the team made history by securing a semifinal spot and clinching a bronze medal after defeating Germany on penalties.
The Flamingos enter this qualification stage in the second round after receiving a bye, while South Africa’s Bantwana dominated their first-round tie with a 21-2 aggregate victory over Gabon (winning 12-1 and 9-1).
Key Players in the Flamingos Squad
Coach Olowookere has retained a strong core of players, including:
- Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens) – A standout midfielder with four goals at the last U-17 World Cup.
- Harmony Chidi (Imo Strikers) – A dynamic forward who was instrumental in the team’s attack.
- Peace Effiong (Rivers Angels) – Another exciting attacking option.
- Christiana Uzoma (Edo Queens) – The team’s first-choice goalkeeper.
- Hannah Ibrahim & Jumai Adebayo – Key defenders expected to strengthen the backline.
With a balanced mix of experienced U-17 internationals and promising new talents, the Flamingos are ready to take on South Africa in what promises to be an exciting battle.
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Full Nigeria U-17 Women’s Squad for World Cup Qualifiers
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 (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)
Can Nigeria Secure a Spot in Morocco 2024?
With a strong squad and a rich history in the tournament, the Flamingos are one of the favorites to qualify. However, South Africa’s Bantwana have shown they are no pushovers, especially after their dominant victory over Gabon.
The first leg will be crucial, as Nigeria will look to establish an advantage before heading to South Africa for the return fixture. With top talents like Moshood and Chidi in the squad, the Flamingos are expected to deliver a strong performance.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming Nigeria vs South Africa U-17 clash is set to be an electrifying encounter as both teams battle for a place at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. With the Flamingos boasting a talented squad and a strong football history, fans will be eager to see if they can overcome South Africa and take a step closer to World Cup glory.
