By Jelili Gbadamosi
Nigeria’s Flamingos have moved within one victory of lifting the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy after defeating Brazil 3-1 in the semi-finals.
The victory, inspired by Awawu Bashiru’s second-half brace, secured Nigeria’s place in Saturday’s final against Japan in Rabat, Morocco.
The Flamingos showed their attacking intent from the opening stages, gradually taking control of the encounter after Brazil initially started brightly.
Nigeria dominated proceedings in the first half, recording nine shots on target, while Brazil struggled to create clear scoring opportunities.
The breakthrough came in the 56th minute when Queen Joseph put Nigeria ahead, finishing off an assist from Oluwakemi Adegbuyi.
Bashiru then took centre stage, doubling Nigeria’s advantage in the 71st minute with an impressive strike.
The forward completed her brace 10 minutes before the end of regulation time after showcasing her dribbling ability to beat Brazil’s defenders before finding the net.
Brazil reduced the deficit in the 89th minute through Kelly, who scored with a well-directed header.
Despite the late consolation, Nigeria maintained their advantage to seal a 3-1 victory and eliminate the South Americans from the competition.
The Flamingos will now face Japan in the final on Saturday, with the Nigerian youngsters aiming to finish their campaign by claiming the world title.
