Nigeria’s Under-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, are set to fly to Côte d’Ivoire tomorrow for the opening match of their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying tie against Guinea.
Departure and World Cup qualification push
The squad, guided by head coach Akeem Busari, will begin the first leg of the two-game contest as Nigeria presses on in its bid to reach the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The encounter is scheduled for May 23, with the Flamingos stepping up their preparations ahead of what is described as a crucial stage in the qualification process.
Where the Flamingos are preparing
Currently, the team is based in Ikenne, Ogun State, using the Remo Stars Stadium as they bring the final phase of their build-up to a close.
They arrived for this camp after travelling from Abuja to Lagos, completing the transit before settling into their training base.
Camp build-up and results from warm-ups
Busari had invited 36 players to camp in April, and the group has responded strongly in a run of preparation matches.
- The Flamingos beat SoloWonders Babes 7-0.
- They overcame YAFA 5-0.
- Nigeria also recorded a 6-0 victory over Nazareth.
- Generation Next were defeated 7-0.
- Lakesides were held to a 5-0 loss.
Real Rising were the only side to prevent a clean win in the sequence, forcing a 1-1 draw.
Technical focus and team confidence
Team officials have expressed strong confidence that the squad is ready for the qualifier, highlighting the work put in by the technical staff.
- Emphasis has been placed on tactical organisation.
- Fitness has been a major priority throughout the preparation period.
- Attacking efficiency has also been targeted ahead of the two-legged tie.
With the team now set to depart for Côte d’Ivoire, the Flamingos will aim to carry their dominant form into the first match on May 23.
