Nigeria’s U-17 Women’s National Team, the Flamingos, claimed a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Benin Republic in the first leg of the final round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.
The encounter lived up to expectations, with both sides displaying attacking intent from the opening whistle. Benin Republic stunned the home crowd in the 15th minute when Yenido Gandonou broke through Nigeria’s defence to hand the visitors an early lead.
The Flamingos responded with determination and were rewarded in the 26th minute. Queen Joseph rose highest to power home a superb header, restoring parity and ensuring the teams went into the break level at 1-1.
Nigeria returned after halftime with renewed intensity, dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities. Their persistence finally paid off when Ifeanyi Kindness delivered a pinpoint corner that found Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, who finished clinically to put the Flamingos 2-1 ahead.
Benin Republic refused to back down, and Nazifatou Dangui equalised in the 78th minute to set up a dramatic finish. But the Flamingos responded immediately. Just two minutes later, Ifeanyi Kindness capped an outstanding performance by scoring the decisive goal, restoring Nigeria’s lead and sealing a thrilling 3-2 victory.
The result gives the Flamingos a slender but valuable advantage ahead of the return leg in Benin Republic, where they will battle for a place at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
A graduate of Federal Polytechnic Ede, she has built experience covering football leagues, tournaments, and major national news events across Nigeria.
She currently serves as the Media Officer of Ase Ridyem FC, where she oversees the club’s media and communication activities, helping to strengthen its digital presence and fan engagement.
Ayomikun is also a writer for SportsTheOfficial Blog and the face of SportsTheOfficial across its digital platforms, delivering sports news, exclusive interviews, and engaging stories that connect fans to the game.
With a strong passion for sports media and storytelling, she remains committed to building a successful career in sports journalism while contributing to the growth and promotion of sports in Nigeria.
