According to a report by ESPN on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, Nigeria's Flamingos are preparing for their crucial Round of 16 encounter against Mexico at the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco, with attention turning to the possible starting lineup for the knockout fixture.

Nigeria will be hoping to secure a place in the quarter-finals when they face Mexico on Thursday, October 29, 2026. The encounter presents another important challenge for the Flamingos, who will be determined to continue their journey in the competition.

Ahead of the match, Nigeria could adopt a 4-3-3 formation, with head coach Akeem Busari potentially selecting a balanced team capable of defending effectively and creating attacking opportunities.

Jane Ijirigho could retain her position between the posts for Nigeria. The young goalkeeper would be expected to provide confidence at the back while remaining alert to Mexico's attacking threats throughout the encounter.

In defence, Nigeria could deploy Azeezat Oduntan, Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen and Kanyinsola Yusuf.

Oduntan and Yusuf could operate as full-backs, while Sunday and Stephen could form the central defensive partnership. Their responsibilities would include maintaining defensive organization and preventing Mexico from exploiting spaces.

In midfield, Mary Dunstan, Favour Nkwocha and Tosin Rafiu could be selected to provide balance, creativity and defensive support.

Dunstan could operate in a deeper midfield position, helping to protect the defence and distribute possession. Meanwhile, Nkwocha and Rafiu could occupy more advanced positions, providing support for Nigeria's attacking players.

Further forward, Nigeria's attacking department could feature Queen Joseph, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi and Oluebube Umejiaku.

Joseph could operate from the right wing, while Umejiaku could provide an attacking threat from the opposite flank.

Adegbuyi could lead the attack as the central striker, with responsibility for creating problems for Mexico's defenders and converting scoring opportunities.

Nigeria's Possible Starting XI Against Mexico (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Jane Ijirigho.

Defenders: Azeezat Oduntan, Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen, Kanyinsola Yusuf.

Midfielders: Mary Dunstan, Favour Nkwocha, Tosin Rafiu.

Forwards: Queen Joseph, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Oluebube Umejiaku.

Other players who could be considered include Onyinyechi Opara, Mercy Felix, Elizabeth Adesuyi, Pattra Oparanmegwa, Muinat Rotimi, Awawu Bashiru, Precious Oscar, Kaosarat Akanji, Chidera Chidi and Sakirat Sarafa.

Nigeria will be hoping that whichever players are selected can deliver an impressive performance against Mexico and secure qualification for the quarter-finals of the tournament.