U17 Women’s World Cup: Nigeria charges ahead, Zambia stays on course
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The first legs of the final African qualifying round for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2025 revealed early verdicts this past weekend. At home, Nigeria swept aside Algeria (4–0), while Zambia edged past Benin (2–1). These two victories put the Flamingos and Copper Princesses in a strong position ahead of the return legs.
Nigeria 4–0 Algeria: Queen Joseph, a Lightning Bolt Named Goal
It took just sixty seconds for the Nigerians to set the tone. In Ikenne, Queen Joseph netted a quick-fire brace (1st, 17th), propelling the Flamingos full speed into this final qualifying stretch. In between, Zainab Raji (13th) also found the net against an Algerian side overwhelmed by the hosts’ intensity and technical precision.
Commanding the tempo throughout, Bankole Olowookere’s players controlled proceedings from start to finish. To cap off their masterclass, Aishat Animashaun scored a fourth goal in the dying moments (90th), sealing a dominant and well-deserved win. With just 90 minutes to go until Morocco, Nigeria already has one foot on the plane to Casablanca.
Zambia 2–1 Benin: Zambia narrowly edge Benin
Zambia had their star striker to thank - Mercy Chipasula. The Copper Princesses’ forward scored a decisive brace (15th, 60th) against a brave Benin side.
Yenido Ganidonou had briefly revived hope for the visitors with an equaliser (58th), only for Chipasula to punish a disorganised defence two minutes later.
This narrow 2–1 win gives Zambia a slight edge but still leaves the door open for Benin, who will believe in their chances at home. The return leg promises to be a fiery affair.
