Nigeria vs USA: 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup quater-final match preview

Nigeria U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, will face the USA in a thrilling quarterfinal encounter at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

This clash rekindles memories of their previous meeting at the same stage in the 2022 edition, where the Flamingos triumphed en route to securing a historic third-place finish in India.

Flamingos in Fine Form

The Flamingos head into the quarterfinals with momentum after an impressive group stage campaign. They began with a dominant 4-1 win over New Zealand, courtesy of goals from Shakirat Abidemi Moshood, Khadijat Taiwo Adegoke, Faridat Abdulwahab, and Taiwo Tewogbola Afolabi.

They followed up that performance with a 4-0 thrashing of Ecuador, where Moshood once again found the back of the net alongside Chidera Harmony Chidi, Peace Mary Effiong, and another late strike from Moshood to seal victory.

In their final group game, the Flamingos edged the Dominican Republic 1-0, with Moshood scoring a stunning 24-yard strike in the 89th minute, ensuring Nigeria finished top of the group.

USA’s Road to the Quarterfinals

The United States began their campaign with a 3-1 defeat to defending champions Spain but bounced back with a 2-0 win over Colombia. The American side sealed their place in the quarterfinals with a 5-0 demolition of Korea Republic, led by standout forward Melanie Barcenas, who netted twice.

Team Preparations and Lineups

Nigeria’s coach will rely on key players like Moshood, Adegoke, and Chidi to maintain the team’s attacking edge. The squad also boasts strength in midfield with Taiwo Afolabi and Faridat Abdulwahab, while the backline features standout defenders such as Prisca Nwachukwu and Hannah Ibrahim. Goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma is expected to continue between the posts.

Flamingos Squad:

• Goalkeepers: Christiana Uzoma (Edo Queens), Elizabeth Boniface (Sunshine Queens), Sylvia Echefu (Confluence Queens)
• Defenders: Prisca Nwachukwu, Taiwo Adegoke, Vivian Ekezie, Hannah Ibrahim
• Midfielders: Taiwo Afolabi, Faridat Abdulwahab, Shakirat Moshood
• Forwards: Chidera Harmony Chidi, Peace Effiong, Ramotalahi Kareem

The USA, on the other hand, will depend on the creativity of Barcenas and the playmaking prowess of Kennedy Fuller, alongside a strong backline marshalled by Jordyn Hardeman.

USA Squad Highlights:

• Forwards: Melanie Barcenas (San Diego Wave), Mary Long (Duke)
• Midfielders: Kennedy Fuller (Angel City FC), Kimmi Ascanio (San Diego Wave)
• Goalkeepers: Molly Vapensky (Carolina Ascent), Wicki Dunlap (North Carolina Courage Academy)

Rematch to Watch

With both teams eager to advance to the semifinals, this encounter promises to be a spectacle of talent and strategy. The Flamingos will be hoping to replicate their success from 2022, while the USA will be seeking redemption.

The quarterfinal showdown is scheduled to kick off soon, with fans eagerly awaiting what could be another memorable encounter between these two youth football giants.

Will the Flamingos soar higher or will the USA have their revenge? All eyes are on the young Nigerian side to see if they can continue their impressive run in this tournament.