Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have landed in Pretoria ahead of their crucial 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying match against South Africa’s Bantwana.
The squad touched down at OR Tambo International Airport on Thursday morning as they prepare for the first leg of their second-round encounter.
During their arrival, the young players were welcomed by Cameroonian football legend and current Cameroon Football Federation president, Samuel Eto’o.
The four-time African Player of the Year shared words of encouragement with the team and posed for a group photograph.
The Flamingos are set to face South Africa on Saturday at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria, with the return leg scheduled for March 15 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Nigeria.
The aggregate winner of the two-legged tie will advance to the final round of the qualification campaign.
Nigeria are aiming to secure a spot in the tournament, which will be hosted by Morocco later this year.
The Flamingos have a rich history in the U-17 Women’s World Cup, having consistently qualified for the tournament since its inception in 2008.
With high stakes in play, the team will be looking to make a strong impression as they seek to edge closer to the global competition.
