FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup: Nigeria advances to the quarterfinals; Kenya eliminated by Japan
Nigeria has secured its spot in the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Mexico 2–1. Kenya, meanwhile, has been eliminated from the competition following a 1–3 loss to Japan, despite an encouraging opening goal.
African representatives Nigeria and Ghana remain in the hunt for the title.
Nigeria confirms its ambitions
Building on their resounding group-stage victory over two-time defending champions DPR Korea (3–1), Nigeria continued their strong form by eliminating Mexico in the Round of 16.
The Flamingos made the difference with a goal in each half. Oluebube Umejiaku opened the scoring in the 40th minute, capitalizing on a poor clearance by the Mexican defense to fire an unstoppable shot from inside the penalty area.
After the break, Mary Dunstan extended the lead for the African side after 71 minutes. Following a risky punch-clearance attempt by goalkeeper Ania Lopez, Dunstan struck a determined effort into the top corner.
Emily Delgado pulled one back for Mexico in stoppage time (90+10) with a fine left-footed strike, but the late response was not enough to save the North Americans from elimination.
Oluebube Umejiaku, who opened the scoring, was named Player of the Match.
Nigeria will now face Venezuela in the quarterfinals.
Kenya stopped by Japan
Kenya adventure stopped short of the quarterfinals. Despite a promising start against Japan, the Kenyans ended the game losing 1–3, in a match where they nonetheless managed to challenge one of the most consistent teams in the tournament.
Buoyed by their 4–0 victory over Samoa, which secured their place in the round of 16, the Africans struck first. Brenda Achieng opened the scoring in the 29th minute, capping off a superb passage of play. This goal brought an end to Japan’s clean sheet streak, which they held since the start of the competition.
The Kenyan celebration, however, was short-lived. Seven minutes later, Mei Hanashiro leveled the score after 36 minutes, capitalizing on an opportunity inside the penalty area.
After the break, the Japanese gained the upper hand. Nanami Kurita, scoring with her left foot at the hour mark, followed by Asuka Tanaka scoring at the 75th minute, confirming Japan’s dominance and sealing their advancement to the quarterfinals where they will face Ghana.
