Nigeria U-17 women’s national team coach Akeem Busari has challenged his players to raise their performance levels despite their dominant display against Guinea as the Flamingos prepare for a crucial final qualifying clash against Benin Republic for a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
READ ALSO: ‘Proud Moment’ — Alhassan Yusuf Reacts After Match-Winning Display In Super Eagles Unity Cup Triumph
The Flamingos secured their spot in the final qualification round after a commanding 11-0 aggregate victory over Guinea.
Busari’s side followed up a 5-0 first-leg triumph with an emphatic 6-0 win at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, on Sunday.
Captain Harmony Chidi and Oluwakemi Adegbuyi both scored braces in the second leg, while Queen Joseph and Precious Oscar also found the net to complete another impressive performance from the Nigerian youngsters.
Despite the convincing scoreline, Busari insists his team remains a work in progress and must continue improving in several areas ahead of the decisive encounter against Benin Republic.
“This is a new team and they are still learning,” Busari said after the match. “The players have talent and character, but we are focused on helping them understand our tactical philosophy and improve their transitions from defence to attack.”
The coach praised the squad’s discipline, energy and willingness to learn but emphasized that there are still shortcomings that need urgent attention.
“We still believe we have a lot of shortcomings, even though we also have many strong points. We must continue working hard on movement, tactical awareness, passing drills and decision-making,” he added.
Busari explained that his team’s strategy against Guinea was designed to counter their opponents’ physical style by relying on possession, quick passing and intelligent movement.
The approach paid off as the Flamingos dominated both legs and advanced comfortably.
The coach also dismissed suggestions that Guinea were weak opponents, noting that they had entered the tie with an impressive scoring record after defeating Niger Republic 8-2 on aggregate in the previous round.
As preparations begin for the final qualifying round, Busari said the technical crew will continue focusing on team cohesion, tactical discipline and player development to ensure the Flamingos are fully prepared for the challenge ahead.
Nigeria will face Benin Republic, who advanced after defeating Sierra Leone 5-1 on aggregate. The winner of the two-legged tie will secure a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup scheduled to take place in Morocco from October 17 to November 7, 2026.
Meanwhile, the team’s impressive six-goal performance against Guinea earned a financial boost after prominent sports investor Kunle Soname redeemed his pledge of ₦750,000 per goal, rewarding the Flamingos with ₦4.5 million.
While the celebrations continue following another dominant victory, Busari’s message remains clear: the Flamingos must keep improving if they are to achieve their ultimate goal of qualifying for and excelling at the World Cup in Morocco.
