Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team coach, Akeem Busari, has hailed the Flamingos’ fighting spirit after the youngsters dramatically booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, setting up a mouth-watering showdown with Brazil.
The Nigerian girls sent the nation’s football community into wild celebrations on Sunday after captain Azeezat Oduntan converted a nerve-racking 89th-minute penalty to seal a 1-0 quarter-final victory over Venezuela in Morocco.
The dramatic breakthrough came after Oluebube Umejiaku was fouled inside the penalty area, with the referee upholding the spot-kick decision following a VAR review.
Oduntan stepped forward and delivered the decisive blow, sending the Flamingos into the last four for only the second time in their history.
Busari Hails Players’ Gladiatorial Spirit
Busari’s praise for his players comes after their remarkable recovery from a disappointing opening defeat to Poland.
The Flamingos subsequently defeated Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea and Mexico before overcoming Venezuela in a tense quarter-final encounter.
The coach had previously described his players as “gladiators”, praising their never-say-die attitude and determination to fight until the final whistle.
“I give kudos to the players because they are the gladiators. They made it happen. We can only give instructions and look at the analysis,” Busari said.
The latest victory has further strengthened Nigeria’s confidence as they pursue their first-ever U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
