Nigeria's Flamingos have advanced to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup after defeating defending champions North Korea 3-1 in their final Group B match. The match took place at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, Morocco on Friday. Nigeria needed a win to guarantee their progress after losing to Poland in their second match, having opened their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Puerto Rico.
Akeem Busari's side rose to the occasion, with Oluwakemi Adegbuyi opening the scoring in the 15th minute. Oluebube Umejiaku extended Nigeria's lead in the 38th minute, beating North Korea's high defensive line before finishing past the goalkeeper. The Flamingos' victory was secured with a third goal from Kanyisola Yusuf early in the 56th minute.
North Korea pulled one back through a penalty in the 82nd minute, but Nigeria held firm defensively to preserve their two-goal advantage and secured the victory. The result saw Nigeria finish second in Group B behind North Korea, who claimed top spot on goals scored. Poland ended the group stage in third place despite finishing level on points with the top two teams.
In other news, Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has declared open the 2026 Port Harcourt Amateur Open Golf Championship. The event, which is being held in Port Harcourt, has attracted over 250 golfers from across Nigeria. Fubara renewed his administration's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote youth development and the wellbeing of Rivers people.
The Rivers State Government has identified with the championship and will continue to support initiatives that promote youth development and the wellbeing of the people. Fubara described golf as more than a sport, emphasizing that it teaches patience, discipline, focus, and integrity. These values are in line with his administration's commitment to peace, unity, and healthy living for all the people of Rivers State.
Nigerian clubs MFM Basketball Club and First Bank Basketball Club will battle for places in the African Women's Basketball League finals when they compete in the FIBA Africa Zone 3 qualifiers in Monrovia, Liberia, from November 2 to 9. The top two teams will earn qualification for the continental finals in Cairo, Egypt, scheduled for December 11 to 19.
Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze is expected to spend at least two months on the sidelines with a hip injury, ruling him out of AC Milan's upcoming fixtures, including the derby against Inter Milan. Chukwueze has made eight appearances across all competitions this season, providing two assists since returning to Milan following a loan spell at Premier League club Fulham.
Key points
- Nigeria's Flamingos defeated North Korea 3-1 to advance to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.
