Nigeria’s U17 girls, the Flamingos, have been drawn into Group A of the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals. They will compete against the host nation Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and New Zealand.
The draw ceremony, held on Saturday night at the Fray Anton de Montesinos Monument in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, also placed Africa’s other representatives, Kenya and Zambia, into Groups C and D respectively. Kenya will face Korea DPR, Mexico, and England, while Zambia will compete against Japan, Poland, and Brazil.
Reigning world champions Spain lead Group B, which includes the USA, Korea Republic, and Colombia.
The Flamingos were impressive in the qualifiers, defeating their opponents convincingly. They routed the Central African Republic (CAR) 12-0 over two legs, thrashed Burkina Faso 7-1, and overcame Liberia 6-1 to secure their World Cup spot.
The 8th edition of the tournament marks the debut of both the Dominican Republic and Ecuador. Given the pedigree of the four teams, Nigeria is favoured to advance, with New Zealand being their primary competition, though the Dominican Republic may leverage home advantage.
Despite never winning the competition, Flamingos coach Bankole Olowookere aims to lead the Nigeria team to their first title. The tournament is scheduled for October and November, with the first game on October 16 and the final on November 4.
The finals will be held from October 16 to November 3, with all 32 matches played in Santo Domingo and Santiago de los Caballeros.
Group A: Dominican Republic, Ecuador, New Zealand, Nigeria
Group B: Spain, USA, Korea Republic, Colombia
Group C: Korea DPR, Mexico, Kenya, England
Group D: Japan, Poland, Brazil, Zambia
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