Flamingos head coach Akeem Busari has praised his players for showing resilience in their 2-0 victory over Puerto Rico at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, admitting that the pressure of their opening defeat to Poland made the encounter particularly difficult.
Nigeria secured their first three points in Group B through goals from Oluwakemi Adegbuyi in the 25th minute and Precious Oscar in stoppage time, keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
Busari acknowledged that his players struggled to convert several opportunities but commended their determination to secure a crucial victory.
“It was a very thorough win and a strong win because Puerto Rico knew it was going to be a game that would decide their fate,” he said.
“We were unable to convert our chances in the first half, a couple of misses, but quite fortunately we got the second one towards the tail end of the game.”
The coach warned against underestimating Puerto Rico despite their defeat.
“It was a very tough game. They are no pushovers,” he added.
Nigeria now face defending champions North Korea on Friday, October 23, in their final group match.
The Asian side have won both their opening fixtures, beating Puerto Rico 6-0 and Poland 6-1 to lead Group B with six points, while Nigeria and Poland have three points each.
Busari believes his young players are gradually overcoming the disappointment of their opening loss.
“They were young. We don’t need to bully them. We don’t need to criticise them. It’s all about counselling and telling them what they need to do,” he explained.
He also noted an improvement in the team’s composure compared with the Poland encounter.
“They are more calm than the Poland game,” Busari stated.
With North Korea presenting Nigeria’s toughest group-stage challenge, Busari will be hoping his players build on their improved confidence and become more clinical in front of goal.
The Flamingos must produce another strong performance against the defending champions to strengthen their chances of progressing to the knockout stage.
