Tough Start for African Contingent at U-17 Women’s World Cup
None of Africa’s five representatives at the 2025 U17 Women’s world Cup could secure a victory after the first round of matches. Hosts Morocco, Cameroon, Nigeria and Zambia all lost their opening games in frustrating fashion. Côté d’Ivoire was on the verge of a breaking the duck before South Korea’s Tae-yong scored late to snatch a draw from the Ivorians.
A Seven-Goal Thriller
The most spectacular match of the opening round involving an African team saw Cameroon narrowly lose a high-octane battle, falling 4-3 to The Netherlands. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing Cameroon’s formidable attacking power but highlighting a need for greater defensive solidity.
Nigeria fall to Canada
Nigeria faced a tough defeat, losing 4-1 to a clinical Canada side. A well-taken goal by Queen Joseph, gave the west Africans hope, making the score 1-1 at the half. However, Canada proved too strong in the second half. Gabriela Istocki had opened the scoring early, with Melisa Kekic adding another before Julia Amireh dashed any hopes of a comeback with two late goals.
Host Nation’s Tough Debut
Host nation Morocco faced a formidable challenge right out of the gate against South American giants of Brazil. Playing in front of their passionate home crowd, the young Atlas Lionesses fought hard but ultimately went down 3-0.
The Brazilians’ class shone through, with goals from Evelin, Giovanna Waksman, and Allyne. Waksman’s stunning goal was a particular moment of pure brilliance.
Zambia Edged Out in Tight Contest
Zambia put up a brave fight in their opening fixture but were eventually defeated 2-1 by a resilient Paraguay side.
A crucial strike from Zambia’s talented midfielder, Agnes Nabukenya, gave her team a foothold in the match. However, own goals from Natalia Dominguez and Agustina Velazquez secured the victory for Paraguay. Zambia would feel unlucky to have conceded two own goals but can take confidence from their battling performance.
Côte d’Ivoire Secures Africa’s Only Point
The most positive result for the continent came from Côte d’Ivoire, who earned a 1-1 draw against South Korea.
The Ivorians’ goal was scored by Lama Dea, while South Korea’s late goal came from Tae-yong Shin.
The Road Ahead: Bounce-Back Time
The message for all five African teams is clear: the initial sting of defeat must fuel a fierce reaction.
Round 2 of the tournament brings monumental tests for the African continent. Cameroon faces a massive challenge against a strong North Korea side, while the host nation, Morocco, must quickly regroup for a tough encounter with Italy. Elsewhere, Nigeria will need to be at their absolute best as they take on European powerhouse France, and Zambia has a tricky tie against Japan. Finally, Côte d’Ivoire, buoyed by their opening point, will look to build momentum against Colombia.
