AFCON 2025
Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, suffered a tough start to their 2025 World Cup campaign with a 4–1 defeat to Canada on Sunday night at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Salé — their heaviest opening-day loss in the competition’s history.
Canada struck inside two minutes when Gabriela Istocki capitalised on poor defending to turn in a low cross. The early setback jolted Nigeria into action as Coach Bankole Olowookere’s girls pressed aggressively and attacked with purpose.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 30th minute when Queen Joseph tapped in after the Canadian goalkeeper spilled Olamide Olanrewaju’s powerful shot.
The equaliser lifted the Flamingos, who controlled possession and carved out chances before halftime. They racked up 13 shots and four corners, while Canada managed just two attempts and no corners.
But the second half swung sharply in Canada’s favour. The North Americans began to dominate midfield, and Nigeria’s defensive shape gradually loosened. In the 73rd minute, Melisa Kekic restored Canada’s lead with a well-taken effort from the edge of the box after a lapse in concentration.
Nervous defending and errors at the back then cost Nigeria dearly. Amireh added two more goals in the 80th and 86th minutes to seal a brace and complete a commanding win for Canada.
The Flamingos now face a major test of character as they look to recover from the defeat and keep their World Cup hopes alive.
