Nigeria’s Flamingos have booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Mexico 2-1 in their Round of 16 encounter on Thursday.
Oluebube Umejiaku put Nigeria ahead in the 40th minute, giving the team a deserved lead heading into the half-time break.
The Flamingos continued their push after the restart and doubled their advantage in the 72nd minute through Mary Akpan Dunstan, putting head coach Hakeem Busari’s side in control of the encounter.
Mexico, however, refused to give up and reduced the deficit through Emily Delgado, who scored in the 10th minute of stoppage time.
Despite the late pressure, Nigeria held on to secure victory and progress to the last eight.
The result continues Nigeria’s impressive campaign following their 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea in their final group-stage match, which secured their passage to the knockout rounds.
The Flamingos will face Venezuela in the quarter-finals on Sunday, November 1, as they seek to advance further and strengthen their bid for the tournament title.
