Nigeria’s Flamingos star Favour Nkwocha put in an outstanding midfield display to earn the Player of the Match award as Nigeria secured a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Venezuela in the quarter-finals of the ongoing 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

A late penalty coolly converted by Aishat Oduntan in the 89th minute proved decisive, breaking the deadlock and sending the Nigerian youngsters through to the last four at the Mohammed VI Football Academy.

Nkwocha, who showcased great composure and intelligence in the heart of the midfield throughout the match, anchored the side brilliantly despite picking up an early yellow card in the 24th minute of the encounter.

The Flamingos produced an impressive attacking performance overall, registering 19 shot attempts to Venezuela’s six, even as both sides shared an even 50 percent of possession across the 90 minutes.

This crucial win marks another major milestone in Nigeria’s tournament campaign as the Flamingos continue their quest for a historic first U-17 Women’s World Cup title.