Nigeria 2 South Africa 0: Chidi and Animashaun find the net as Flamingos get the job done

Nigeria’s U17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, sealed their spot in the final round of the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers with a commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on Saturday evening.

The win secured a 5-1 aggregate triumph following their 3-1 first-leg victory in Pretoria.

Chidi Harmony opened the scoring in the 37th minute, heading home from close range after a well-delivered cross from Shakirah Moshood, who had received a smart layoff from Aishat Animashaun.

The goal gave Nigeria the advantage just before halftime despite South Africa’s determined response. The visitors showed great fighting spirit and controlled large parts of the first half after conceding, pressing forward in search of an equalizer.

However, the Flamingos remained composed and doubled their lead in the 56th minute when Animashaun unleashed a stunning strike from the edge of the penalty box, lobbing the South African goalkeeper.

With a two-goal cushion, Nigeria took full control of the game, dominating possession and pushing for a third goal to the delight of the home fans in Ikenne.

Chidi came close to adding another late on, but her powerful shot from inside the box was saved by the South African goalkeeper after another fine pass from Moshood

Despite Nigeria’s relentless pressure, South Africa held firm to avoid further damage, though they ultimately fell short in their comeback bid.

The victory sees Nigeria advance to the final qualifying round, where they will face either Botswana or Algeria.

Botswana holds a slight advantage, having won their first leg 2-1 at home.

Adeyemi Adewale

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