Nigeria, Ghana Qualify for U-17 Women’s World Cup Round of 16
Nigeria and Ghana have become the first African countries to qualify for the Round of 16 at the ongoing 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Nigeria’s Flamingos secured their place in the knockout stage with an impressive 3-1 victory over defending champions Korea DPR in their final Group B match.
Ghana’s Black Maidens also advanced after defeating Canada 2-0 in their final Group C match on Saturday.
Nigeria’s victory over Korea DPR was a major boost for the Flamingos, who showed their strength against the defending champions to book their place in the next round.
The win will also give the Nigerian girls confidence as they prepare for the knockout stage, where every match could determine their exit from the competition.
Ghana also impressed with their victory over Canada, securing qualification and giving Africa another team to support in the race for the title.
The Black Maidens will now look to maintain their form as they prepare for the Round of 16.
Five African countries are competing at the tournament: hosts Morocco, Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia and Kenya.
With Nigeria and Ghana already through, attention has turned to Morocco, Zambia and Kenya as they seek to join their fellow African teams in the knockout stage.
The progress of the African teams will be important for the continent, which continues to develop its women’s youth football and produce players capable of competing at the highest level.
Nigeria will hope to build on their victory over Korea DPR and continue their push for the title, while Ghana will aim to carry their strong group-stage form into the knockout rounds.
