Nigeria Target World Cup Ticket in Lomé

Nigeria Target World Cup Qualification in Lomé

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria's Flamingos will look to book their place at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup when they face Benin Republic in the decisive second leg of their final qualifying round at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo, on Saturday, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Flamingos head into the encounter with a slender 3-2 advantage from the first leg in Ikenne, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of the return fixture.

Despite holding the edge, Nigeria will be wary of a Benin side that demonstrated its attacking quality in the opening leg and remains firmly in contention for a historic qualification. With just 90 minutes separating both teams from a place at the global tournament in Morocco, another fiercely contested encounter is expected.

Having established themselves as one of Africa's leading forces in women's youth football, the Flamingos are aiming to extend their impressive record by securing another appearance on the world stage. Benin, meanwhile, are chasing a landmark achievement as they seek a maiden FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup qualification.

Nigeria will be expected to rely on their experience and composure, while Benin will hope to build on the confidence gained from their spirited first-leg performance.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Ugandan referee Shamirah Nabadda to officiate the match. Her compatriot, Josephine Nantongo, will serve as reserve referee, while Malian official Fanta Idrissa Kone and Burundi's Fides Bangurambona have been named assistant referees.

Togolese official Aissata Ameyo will serve as match commissioner, with Senegal's Fatou Gaye appointed as referee assessor.

The winner on aggregate will secure one of Africa's qualification slots for the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco.