World Cup Qualifier: Benin Republic Coach Backs Team To Make History Against Nigeria

World Cup Qualifier: Benin Republic Coach Backs Team To Make History Against Nigeria

By BSN Sports 

Benin U-17 women’s national team head coach, Idah Azonsou, has expressed confidence in his side’s ability to overcome Nigeria’s Flamingos and secure a historic place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Young Amazons are set to face the Flamingos in a two-legged qualifying tie next month, with a place at the global tournament at stake.

Preparations for the crucial encounter got underway on Monday at the Missérété Excellence Centre, where the Benin squad began intensive training ahead of the showdown. The team is also scheduled to continue its preparations in Lomé later this week.

Despite acknowledging Nigeria’s pedigree in women’s football, Azonsou believes his players are capable of producing an upset.

“We know that Nigeria is a major force in women’s football and consistently performs at this level,” Azonsou said.

“That is why we are working hard to face them and, hopefully, secure a historic qualification for the U-17 World Cup.”

Nigeria enter the fixture as favourites, having established themselves as one of Africa’s most successful teams at youth level. However, Benin will be aiming to defy the odds and earn a maiden appearance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The first leg of the tie will be played at the Remo Stars Sports Complex on Saturday, July 4, with the return leg scheduled for a week later at the Kégué Stadium in Lomé.

Both teams will be seeking a positive result as they battle for one of Africa’s coveted places at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.