Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, beat Paraguay 3–2 in their final pre-World Cup friendly.
Mariam Yahaya scored a hat-trick as Nigeria wrapped up preparations for the tournament.
Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, ended their World Cup preparations on a winning note after a 3–2 victory over Paraguay in a friendly match held in Casablanca, Morocco, on Tuesday.
The Nigerian side got off to a perfect start within two minutes of play. Goalkeeper Elizabeth Boniface sent a long ball that reached Shakirat Moshood, who cleverly set up Mariam Yahaya to chip past the Paraguayan goalkeeper for the first goal.
Paraguay equalized in the 15th minute following a defensive mistake by Christiana Sunday. However, Yahaya restored Nigeria’s lead just before halftime, converting from close range in the 44th minute. She completed her hat-trick a minute later after receiving a well-timed pass from Kaosarat Olanrewaju, giving the Flamingos a 3–1 lead at the break.
In the second half, the Nigerian girls continued to dominate possession and created several chances. Moshood and Ayomide Abubakar came close to increasing the tally, but the Paraguayan goalkeeper pulled off excellent saves. Substitute goalkeeper Sylvia Echefu also made important stops to keep Nigeria in front.
Paraguay managed to score a late goal, but the Flamingos held firm until the final whistle to secure the win, their 12th friendly match victory. The team has now scored 50 goals and conceded only six during their pre-tournament games.
Team media officer Dorcas Koki confirmed that the squad, led by coach Bankole Olowookere, will travel to Rabat on Wednesday to conclude preparations for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which begins on October 17.
Nigeria has been placed in Group D alongside Canada, France, and Samoa. The team will aim to improve on their previous performances and make a strong impression when the tournament kicks off this weekend.
