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Nigeria's U-17 women's national team, the Flamingos, have unveiled their starting eleven for their highly anticipated FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup semi-final encounter against Brazil in Morocco.
According to a report by ESPN on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, head coach Akeem Busari has introduced one adjustment to the squad that secured a quarter-final victory over Venezuela.
Awawu Bashiru has been included in the starting lineup, replacing Tosin Rafiu, who has been relegated to the bench following a minor injury. The remaining ten players who started against Venezuela have maintained their positions as Nigeria prepare for the difficult test against Brazil.
Jane Ijirigho will occupy the goalkeeper position, while team captain Azeezat Oduntan will anchor the defence alongside Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen and Kanyinsola Yusuf.
The midfield responsibility will be handled by Mary Dunstan, Favour Nkwocha and Awawu Bashiru. The three players will be expected to compete for possession, disrupt Brazil's attacking movements and help Nigeria establish control of the encounter.
In attack, Queen Joseph, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi and Oluebube Umejiaku have been selected to lead Nigeria's offensive efforts and create scoring opportunities against their opponents.
Nigeria's starting eleven comprises Jane Ijirigho, Azeezat Oduntan (captain), Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen, Kanyinsola Yusuf, Mary Dunstan, Favour Nkwocha, Awawu Bashiru, Queen Joseph, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi and Oluebube Umejiaku.
On the Brazilian side, head coach Rilany Silva has opted to retain the same starting eleven that defeated China PR 2-1 in their quarter-final fixture.
Brazil will begin the encounter with Nathy, Isa Rech, Yasmin Queiroz, Andreyna (captain), Sarah Coelho, Marcela Bontorim, Carol Melo, Helena, Pepe, Sofia Gamonal and Greise Kelly.
The semi-final represents an important opportunity for both nations, particularly Nigeria, who are targeting their first appearance in the competition's final.
The Flamingos reached this stage after overcoming Venezuela 1-0, with captain Azeezat Oduntan scoring a decisive penalty in the 89th minute. Brazil, meanwhile, secured qualification through a 2-1 comeback victory against China PR.