Canada Overpowers Nigeria 4–1 in FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Opener

Canada Overpowers Nigeria 4–1 in FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Opener

By Admin 

Canada opened their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2025 campaign with a commanding 4–1 victory over Nigeria at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Salé on Sunday, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The North Americans struck early, with Gabriela Istocki finishing a surging run from Molly Hale on the left just two minutes into the contest to hand Canada the lead. Nigeria responded with determination, dominating possession and applying pressure through the midfield.

Flamingos captain Shakirat Moshood tested Canadian goalkeeper Khadijah Cisse twice in the first 15 minutes, first with a long-range effort and later with a volley that sailed just over the bar. Chisom Nwachukwu also forced a save from Cisse as Nigeria continued to threaten.

Their persistence paid off in the 30th minute when Queen Joseph tapped in the equalizer after Cisse spilled Kaosarat Olanrewaju’s shot under pressure, restoring parity in the entertaining Group D clash.

However, the second half belonged to Canada. In the 73rd minute, substitute Melisa Kekic capitalized on a long ball, eluded her marker, and slotted past Nigerian goalkeeper Elizabeth Boniface to regain the lead.

Canada extended their advantage in the 80th minute through Julia Amireh, who pounced on a loose ball after Boniface failed to control a Canadian attack. Amireh then completed her brace six minutes later, racing past the Nigerian defence and finishing confidently to make it 4–1.

Despite a spirited first half, the Flamingos were unable to contain Canada’s relentless second-half pressure. Nigeria will aim to bounce back when they face France in their next Group D match on Wednesday.