Benin Coach Confident Young Amazons Can Shock Nigeria’s Flamingos In U-17 World Cup Qualifier

Benin U-17 women’s national team head coach Idah Azonsou has expressed confidence that his side can overcome Nigeria’s Flamingos and secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The Young Amazons are set to face Nigeria in a crucial qualifying tie next month, with both teams fighting for a place at the global tournament.

Azonsou’s team began preparations for the encounter on Monday at the Missérété Excellence Centre before continuing their training camp in Lomé this weekend.

The Benin coach acknowledged Nigeria’s reputation as one of the strongest teams in African women’s football, admitting that the Flamingos will enter the tie as favourites. However, he believes his players have what it takes to cause an upset.

“We know that Nigeria is a major force in women’s football and consistently performs at this level. That is why we are working hard to face them and, hopefully, secure a historic qualification for the U-17 World Cup,” Azonsou said.

Nigeria, who have a strong history in the competition, will host the first leg of the fixture at the Remo Stars Sports Complex on Saturday, July 4, while the return leg will take place a week later at the Kegue Stadium in Lomé.

The tie promises to be a major test for both sides, with Nigeria aiming to maintain their dominance and Benin hoping to create history by reaching the U-17 Women’s World Cup.