Accra, Ghana – Nigeria’s U17 girls, the Flamingos, put on a masterclass of dominance and precision on Thursday, dismantling Niger Republic 9-0 in their second match of the WAFU U17 Girls’ Cup in Ghana. The emphatic victory not only showcased Nigeria’s attacking firepower but also underscored their credentials as strong contenders for the regional title.
The Flamingos wasted no time asserting their superiority. In just the 5th minute, Aishat Animashaun opened the floodgates, calmly slotting in a fine finish after a perfectly delivered in-swinging ball from Mary Mamudu. FIFA U17 World Cup sensation Shakirat Moshood then took center stage, electrifying the crowd with a sensational 35-yard screamer in the 17th minute to double Nigeria’s lead.
Moshood’s brilliance continued six minutes later as she latched onto an assist from Animashaun, burying Nigeria’s third goal. The Flamingos’ relentless attack left Niger Republic reeling, and in the 33rd minute, Janet Akekoromowei joined the scoring party with a clinical close-range finish.
Akekoromowei proved unstoppable, netting her second just before halftime in the 42nd minute and completing her hat-trick moments later with a thunderous header.
With the Flamingos in full control, Moshood ensured her name would dominate the headlines, completing her own first-half hat-trick in the 45th minute.
At the halftime whistle, Nigeria led 7-0, leaving no doubt about their determination to secure an overwhelming victory.
The second half brought no respite for Niger Republic as Moshood continued her unstoppable performance. In the 59th minute, she breezed past the Nigerien defense in a dazzling solo run before calmly slotting in her fourth goal of the match.
Her sensational effort marked one of the standout performances of the tournament so far.
Peace Effiong rounded off the spectacular display in the 79th minute with a fierce strike from distance, leaving Niger Republic’s goalkeeper Ndiaye Fatai Basiru helpless.
The Flamingos’ ninth goal sealed a resounding victory that sent a clear message to their rivals.
With this win, Nigeria’s Flamingos have now scored an astounding 14 goals in just two matches, cementing their place as a dominant force in the WAFU U17 Girls’ Cup.
Head coach Bankole Olowookere praised his team’s discipline and hunger, noting that the players’ execution of strategy was key to their success.
“Our girls showed great focus today,” Olowookere said. “The teamwork, precision, and hunger they displayed prove that we’re on the right path. But there’s still work to do.”
Looking ahead, the Flamingos will face Côte d’Ivoire on Monday in their third group-stage match as they continue their quest for the WAFU U17 title.
A victory will all but secure their spot in the knockout rounds and further solidify their position as the team to beat in the competition.
