Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have been drawn in a challenging Group D alongside Canada, France, and Samoa for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The draw, conducted on Wednesday at the prestigious Mohammed VI Football Academy in Rabat, places Nigeria in a group with formidable opponents as the tournament prepares for its biggest and most historic edition yet.
The 2025 tournament, set to run from October 17 to November 8, marks the first-ever 24-team FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and notably, the first time the competition will be hosted on African soil. Morocco has also been confirmed as host for the next five editions of the tournament through 2029.
Group D – The Flamingos’ Road
Nigeria, who will be making their eighth appearance at the cadet tournament, face a stiff test in Group D:
Canada – A North American powerhouse with a rich history in women’s football.
France – One of Europe’s strongest youth teams and regular contenders at global tournaments.
Samoa – Making their debut in the competition, representing the Oceania region.
All matches in the group will take place in Rabat, the Moroccan capital.
Group A: Morocco, Brazil, Italy, Costa Rica
Group B: Korea DPR (defending champions), Mexico, Cameroon, Netherlands
Group C: USA, Ecuador, China, Norway
Group D: Nigeria, Canada, France, Samoa
Group E: Spain, Colombia, Korea Republic, Ivory Coast
Group F: Japan, New Zealand, Zambia, Paraguay
Historic Format & Opening Match
This edition introduces the 24-team format — the largest ever — with the top two teams from each group and the four best third-placed teams advancing to the round of 16. The tournament opener on October 17 will feature hosts Morocco against Brazil, promising a spectacular start.
Nigeria’s Hopes
After a bronze medal finish in India in 2022, the Flamingos will aim to build on that momentum and push for a historic run in Morocco. The draw, while tough, offers opportunities for Nigeria’s talented young squad to shine against world-class opposition.
With the tournament’s expansion and growing visibility, expectations will be high for the Flamingos to once again fly Nigeria’s flag proudly on the global stage.
