Head Coach, Bankole Olowookere has declared that Nigeria’s U-17 girls will go all out for a high-margin victory when they face Algeria in the first leg of their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final qualifying round on Saturday in Ikenne. The match will be crucial as the Flamingos aim to secure a significant advantage ahead of the second leg, which will take place in Blida next week.

Speaking to thenff.com, Olowookere emphasized the importance of securing a big result at home to reduce pressure before traveling for the away leg. “We have been working very hard to correct the lapses noticed in our last matches (against South Africa), and we believe we are in good form to achieve a win here and then go all out in the second leg in Algeria,” Olowookere said, reflecting on the team's preparations and confidence heading into the match. He continued, “I have always told the girls that no two matches are the same, so the fact that we beat South Africa home-and-away does not mean we will rest on our oars in this final round.”

Olowookere further revealed the team's ultimate mission: “Our mission is to pick the FIFA World Cup ticket, and go to Morocco to make Nigeria proud.” His statement reiterated the team’s commitment to securing their spot in the World Cup, with the first leg in Ikenne seen as a vital step toward achieving this goal.

Ikenne Fortress: Remo Stars Stadium Set for Flamingos’ Crucial Test

The Remo Stars Stadium will host Saturday’s crucial tie, marking the venue where the Flamingos triumphed over South Africa 2-0 in their previous round of qualifiers. This familiar setting brings hope and confidence to the squad as they prepare for their next challenge. The Flamingos’ strong performance in the last round, where they secured a 3-1 victory in Pretoria and followed it up with a 2-0 win at home, has fueled their optimism heading into this match. They are banking on their home advantage to deliver a solid result before traveling to Stade Mustapha Tchaker in Blida for the second leg on Friday, April 25.

Harmony, Shakirat, Aishat to Lead Attack against Algeria

Olowookere is counting on his prolific attacking players to carry the team over the line in this crucial fixture. Harmony Chidi, who has scored 16 goals in World Cup qualifying matches, remains Nigeria’s most dangerous player. Chidi, who scored 13 goals during qualifiers for the last edition in the Dominican Republic, is poised to play a pivotal role in the upcoming match. Also in the spotlight is midfielder Shakirat Moshood, who netted four goals at the last World Cup and was instrumental in the Flamingos’ 3-1 away win against South Africa. Aishat Animashaun, another standout player in the victory over the Bantwana, is expected to continue her fine form and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s attacking efforts.

Olowookere is confident his trusted players can make a statement

Eyes on Morocco: Final Hurdle Before the Big Stage

Victory over Algeria in both legs will guarantee Nigeria’s place at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup finals in Morocco, scheduled for October 17 to November 5, 2025. The Flamingos, who finished third in the last edition in 2022, are determined to return to the global stage with an even stronger showing. Olowookere is confident that with the right mindset and preparation, his squad can rise to the occasion and secure their spot in the prestigious competition. His target is a dominant first-leg display in Ikenne, setting the tone for the second leg and ensuring that Nigeria’s U-17 women make a triumphant return to the world stage in Morocco.