FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup: Morocco makes a strong statement, Poland secures win against Nigeria
Morocco got their 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign off to a perfect start, dominating New Zealand 4–0 on home soil. Meanwhile, Poland also enjoyed a successful opening match, defeating Nigeria 2–1 in a hard-fought contest.
A convincing start for Morocco
Morocco began their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in ideal fashion, cruising to a 4–0 victory over New Zealand in front of their home crowd. Buoyed by a fantastic atmosphere, the "Lionesses of the Atlas" delivered a polished performance, putting themselves in a strong position to reach the knockout stages.
Despite a promising start and several clear-cut chances, the Moroccans had to wait until the second half to turn their dominance into goals. Notably, the New Zealand goalkeeper shone in the 38th minute, pulling off a crucial double save from point-blank range.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 57th minute. Connecting with a cross from Hiba Youssoufi on the right flank, Sonia Abajiou rose highest to head the ball home, opening the scoring and sparking celebrations for her side.
The Moroccans then stepped up the tempo. In the 67th minute, Imane Dhissi struck the post following another cross from the right. Three minutes later, sustained pressure from Morocco forced Eden Chaytor to deflect the ball into her own net, following an attempt by Nessma Mouradi—who had entered the match just moments earlier. Morocco kept their momentum going, scoring a third goal in the 76th minute through Imane Dhissi, following a fine team move that began down the left flank. Hiba Youssoufi then converted a penalty in the 82nd minute to definitively seal the Moroccan victory.
Named Player of the Match, Youssoufi played a decisive role in the win. Unlike the previous edition, where the "Lioncelles de l’Atlas" (Atlas Lionesses) had to wait until their third match to secure their first victory, this time they made a strong statement right from their opening game.
Poland gets the better of Nigeria
Poland also enjoyed a successful start, defeating Nigeria 2–1. While the Polish side held the upper hand for much of the match, they had to withstand a late fightback from the Nigerians to protect their lead.
Following a hard-fought first half, Wiktoria Skrzypczak opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute. Poland extended their lead in the 65th minute through Natalia Skrok, whose performance earned her the Player of the Match award.
Nigeria, however, did not give up. In the 79th minute, Oluebube Rumejiaku narrowed the deficit with a free kick, setting up a tense finish with eleven minutes left on the clock.
Despite this push from Nigeria, Poland held onto their lead until the final whistle, securing three valuable points in their opening match of the tournament.
The Polish side can now prepare with confidence for their second match—scheduled for Tuesday against DPR Korea—while Nigeria will need to bounce back in their next outing to stay in contention for qualification.