U-17 Women's World Cup: Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire off to a strong start, Nigeria overcome Algeria
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The first-leg matches of the final qualifying round brought several nations closer to the final phase, scheduled for Morocco this year. Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire have taken promising steps forward, while Algeria will need a remarkable comeback to turn things around in the second leg.
Côte d’Ivoire holds firm
In Abidjan, the Éléphantelles did what was needed. Though not dazzling, they were solid and capitalised on Guinea’s weaknesses to snatch a narrow 1-0 win. Guinea, reduced to nine players after two red cards, finally gave way late in the game to a focused Ivorian side, who will now travel to Conakry with a slim advantage and the clear intention of securing a World Cup spot.
Cameroon in control
On the road in Kenya, the young Lionesses showed character with a hard-fought 1-0 away win.. Led by their captain Tiwa Lys Fraîche, who scored the only goal of the match, Cameroon secured an important win ahead of hosting the East Africans in Cameroon.
Algeria overwhelmed by Nigeria
Up against one of the continent’s powerhouses, the young Algerians were outmatched. In Ikenne, Nigeria sealed the game in under 20 minutes, scoring three quick goals. A fourth goal at the very end capped a dominant 4-0 win, placing the Nigerian team in a very favourable position. Algeria will need a massive performance at home to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Zambia edges past Benin
At home, Zambia took a major step forward with a 2-1 victory over Benin. While the tie remains open ahead of the return leg in Lomé, the Zambians impressed and confirmed their growing strength in youth competitions.
