Nigeria’s U‑17 women’s team, known as the [Flamingos](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigeria_women%27s_national_under-17_football_team), earned a spot in the knockout phase of the 2026 FIFA U‑17 Women’s World Cup after a 3‑1 victory over defending champions North Korea on Friday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Salé, Morocco.
**What was the final score and when was the match played?**
The match concluded 3‑1 in favour of Nigeria, with the decisive goals coming in the 15th, 38th and 56th minutes. The game took place on 20 October 2026.
**Who scored for Nigeria and how did the goals unfold?**
Oluwakemi Adegbuyi opened the scoring in the 15th minute. Mid‑fielder Oluebube Umejiaku doubled the lead in the 38th minute by beating a high defensive line and finishing past the goalkeeper. Kanyisola Yusuf added a third goal early in the second half, at the 56th minute, cementing Nigeria’s control of the match.
**Did North Korea respond?**
North Korea reduced the deficit with a penalty in the 82nd minute, but the Flamingos held their defensive shape to preserve the two‑goal margin until the final whistle.
**How did the group standings change after the result?**
The win placed Nigeria second in Group B behind North Korea, who topped the group on goal difference. Poland finished third, level on points with the top two teams but trailing on goal difference.
**Why was the victory crucial for Nigeria?**
Having opened the tournament with a 2‑0 win over Puerto Rico, Nigeria suffered a 2‑0 loss to Poland in their second match, leaving them needing a win in the final group game to guarantee progression. The 3‑1 triumph secured their advancement to the knockout stage of the [2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2026_FIFA_U-17_Women%27s_World_Cup).
The Flamingos’ performance demonstrated resilience and attacking intent, positioning them as one of the tournament’s promising sides as they move forward to the next round.