Captain Azeezat Oduntan scored a dramatic late winner as Nigeria’s Flamingos defeated Venezuela 1-0 in their quarterfinal clash on Sunday to book a place in the semifinals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Oduntan converted from the penalty spot in the 89th minute at the Mohammed VI Football Complex to seal Nigeria’s progression to the last four of the tournament for the second time in their history.
The Flamingos dominated possession in the first half but struggled to break down a resilient Venezuelan defence, with goalkeeper Valeria Rebanales producing several saves to deny Akeem Busari’s side.
Nigeria also had Jane Ijirigho to thank for keeping the scores level after the goalkeeper made a fine stop to deny a goal-bound effort on the half-hour mark. However, the lineswoman raised her flag for offside, meaning the goal would not have counted.
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The contest followed a similar pattern after the break, with Nigeria continuing to search for an opener against a stubborn Venezuelan side.
In an attempt to inject fresh impetus into the attack, Busari introduced Precious Oscar for Kemi Adegbuyi in the 57th minute as the Flamingos increased their pressure.
Nigeria faced a potential setback three minutes later when the referee reviewed a possible red card for Esther Stephen following a VAR check. However, the official upheld her original decision to show the Nigerian defender a yellow card.
Despite their persistent attacking efforts, the Flamingos found it difficult to find a breakthrough as Venezuela continued to hold firm.
Their persistence finally paid off in the closing stages when Nigeria were awarded a penalty. Following a VAR review, the decision was confirmed, presenting the WAFU B champions with a golden opportunity to take the lead.
Captain Oduntan stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick in the 89th minute, sending Rebanales the wrong way to give Nigeria a crucial 1-0 advantage.
Venezuela attempted to find a late equaliser, but the Flamingos remained resolute at the back to preserve their lead and secure a place in the semifinals.
The victory marks Nigeria’s first appearance in the last four since the 2022 edition of the tournament, when they lost to Colombia in the semifinals before defeating Germany to finish third.
The Flamingos will now turn their attention to Brazil, whom they will face in the semifinals at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat on Wednesday, November 4, as they continue their pursuit of a maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
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