Nigeria’s Flamingos 10-match unbeaten streak came to an end on Saturday night in Casablanca after a 3–4 defeat to New Zealand in their latest warm-up encounter ahead of the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Nigeria began the match brightly, earning the first corner within two minutes and initiating early dominance.
Team captain, Shakirat Moshood looked sharp in midfield, while goalkeeper Elizabeth Boniface was tested early but did well to parry a dangerous New Zealand free kick.
The early pressure paid off in the 13th minute when Queen Joseph opened the scoring with a composed finish after a precise through ball split the Kiwi defence.
End-to-end first half
New Zealand hit back in the 25th minute through Laura Bennett, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to equalise.
This is the first goal Nigeria’s Flamingos had conceded in their 11 friendly matches. The Kiwis nearly went ahead moments later, but their effort was ruled offside.
Just before halftime, Moshood restored Nigeria’s lead with a stunning long-range strike in the 42nd minute to send the Flamingos into the break 2–1 up.
Bennett hat-trick stuns Nigeria’s Flamingos
The second half delivered even more excitement. Queen Joseph nearly extended Nigeria’s advantage when her curling effort struck the post, but New Zealand’s Bennett levelled again in the 55th minute.
Bennett completed her hat-trick in the 74th minute, turning the game around to 3–2 for New Zealand. Nigeria, however, responded swiftly as Ayo fired in a superb strike from distance to make it 3–3.
But with 10 minutes left, Candy Sienna produced a spectacular effort for New Zealand to seal a 4–3 victory despite Nigeria’s late surge for an equalizer.
Falconets Coach Aduku Charges Flamingos to Stay Focused
Head coach of Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, Moses Aduku, has urged the country’s U-17 girls, the Flamingos, to remain focused, disciplined, and united as they prepare for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Aduku visited the team’s camp in Abuja on Monday, where he delivered a motivational message to the players, encouraging them to believe in themselves and play with pride as they represent Nigeria on the global stage.
Addressing the players, Aduku reminded them that their performances at the World Cup would not only define their individual careers but also reflect the continued growth of Nigerian women’s football.
“You’ve worked hard to get to this point, now go out there and make yourselves and Nigeria proud,” Aduku said.
“Play with confidence, discipline, and the same hunger that has brought you this far.”
He emphasized the importance of teamwork, mental strength, and self-belief, key attributes he believes will be crucial for success at the tournament.
Praise for Technical Crew and Perfect Build-Up Record
Aduku also commended the Flamingos’ technical crew led by Bankole Olowookere, applauding their dedication and tactical preparation.
The Flamingos have shown exceptional form in their build-up to the tournament, winning all ten of their preparatory matches, scoring 44 goals and conceding none.
The Falconets coach hailed the team’s unbeaten record as a strong indication of their readiness for the challenge ahead.
“Your determination and results so far show that you’re ready,” Aduku noted.
“Keep working as a team and continue to play with the same spirit that has brought you this far.”
Flamingos Set for Morocco Challenge
The loss brings an end to the Flamingos’ impressive 10-game unbeaten run, during which they scored 47 goals and conceded only four.
Head coach Bankole Olowookere and his team will now regroup ahead of their next tune-up match against Paraguay, before moving base to Rabat for the World Cup.
Nigeria has been drawn in Group D alongside Canada, France, and Samoa, with their tournament opener set for October 19.
Nigeria will be aiming to surpass their previous best finish (third place at the 2022 edition in India) as they gear up for another campaign at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
