Nigeria’s Flamingos will face Brazil in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after captain Azeezat Oduntan scored in the 89th minute to secure a 1-0 quarter-final victory over Venezuela in Salé, Morocco.
Oduntan’s late finish inside the box settled a contest in which Nigeria created more chances but struggled to break down Venezuela’s defence at the Mohammed VI Football Academy.
The Flamingos pressed from the opening stages, with Tosin Rafiu, Mary Dunstan and Oluebube Umejiaku leading their attacking efforts. Rafiu came close in the 19th minute, but Venezuela goalkeeper Valeria Rebanales saved her powerful attempt.
Nigeria continued to push after the break, while Venezuela relied largely on counter-attacks. With the match approaching a potential penalty shootout, Oduntan found the decisive opening a minute before the end of regulation time.
The statistics reflected Nigeria’s attacking advantage. The Flamingos registered 18 shots and nine corners, compared with Venezuela’s six shots and no corners.
Victory sends Nigeria into the last four, where they will meet Brazil with a place in the final at stake. The Flamingos are seeking their first title at the tournament.
