Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have been urged to remain focused and avoid underestimating Venezuela as they prepare for a decisive quarter-final encounter at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Head coach Akeem Busari expects a difficult contest against the South Americans, who stand between Nigeria and a place in the semi-finals of the tournament currently taking place in Morocco.
The Flamingos secured their place in the last eight after recording a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mexico on Thursday. Venezuela, meanwhile, announced themselves as serious contenders by defeating Germany 1-0 to eliminate one of the pre-tournament favourites.
The result has heightened expectations ahead of Sunday’s encounter, with both teams aiming to continue their impressive campaigns and move closer to the World Cup title.
Busari has cautioned his players against allowing confidence from their recent success to turn into complacency. The Nigerian coach believes every team still competing in the tournament has the ability to progress, making it essential for his side to approach the match with the right mentality.
According to the coach, Venezuela’s victory over Germany demonstrates the quality and determination they possess, meaning Nigeria must be prepared for a demanding 90 minutes.
He also expressed confidence in his own players, stressing that the Flamingos have the ability to compete with their opponents and must give their best when the two sides meet.
The quarter-final will take place at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 4, in Rabat, Morocco, with kick-off scheduled for 5pm Nigerian time on Sunday.
For Nigeria, victory would secure a place in the semi-finals and bring the team another step closer to achieving its ambitions at the competition.
The Flamingos will therefore be looking to combine the confidence gained from their win over Mexico with discipline, concentration and determination as they pursue a place among the tournament’s final four.
