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CAF
20-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
U17 Women's World Cup: Nigeria charges ahead, Zambia stays on course
The first legs of the final African qualifying round for the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2025 revealed early verdicts this past weekend. At home, Nigeria swept aside Algeria (4–0), while Zambia edged past Benin (2–1). These two victories put the Flamingos and Copper Princesses in a strong position ahead of the return legs. Nigeria 4–0 Algeria: Queen Joseph, a Lightning Bolt Named Goal It took just sixty seconds for the Nigerians to set the tone. In Ikenne, Queen Joseph netted a quick-fire brace (1st, 17th), propelling the Flamingos full speed into this final qualifying stretch. In between, Zainab Raji (13th) also found the net against an Algerian side overwhelmed by the hosts' intensity and technical precision. Commanding the tempo throughout, Bankole Olowookere's players controlled proceedings from start to finish. To cap off their masterclass, Aishat Animashaun scored a fourth goal in the dying moments (90th), sealing a dominant and well-deserved win. With just 90 minutes to go until Morocco, Nigeria already has one foot on the plane to Casablanca. Zambia 2–1 Benin: Zambia narrowly edge Benin Zambia had their star striker to thank - Mercy Chipasula. The Copper Princesses' forward scored a decisive brace (15th, 60th) against a brave Benin side. Yenido Ganidonou had briefly revived hope for the visitors with an equaliser (58th), only for Chipasula to punish a disorganised defence two minutes later. This narrow 2–1 win gives Zambia a slight edge but still leaves the door open for Benin, who will believe in their chances at home. The return leg promises to be a fiery affair. Return matches are scheduled for 26 April.
CAF
18-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Africa's U-17 women enter final battle for World Cup places
Eight nations. Eight journeys. Eight dreams of reaching Morocco for the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup this October. This weekend, in Ndola, Abidjan, Nairobi, and Ikenne, African women's football enters its decisive phase, as the final round of qualifiers kicks off. And each match-up brings its own tension, narrative, and ambition. Zambia v Benin: Ndola, scene of a first step Levy Mwanawasa Stadium – 19 April – 13:00 GMT Zambia continues its rise in youth football. Quarter-finalists at the last U-17 Women's World Cup in the Dominican Republic, the Copper Princesses enter this final round with greater maturity and confidence. Backed by continuity in the coaching staff, Zambia hopes to seize a commanding advantage in the first leg. Playing at home in the familiar Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, the pressure won't faze them — but the stakes are high: avoid being caught off-guard by Benin's momentum. Their opponents, Benin, represent the bold underdog. Disciplined and opportunistic, the Beninese eliminated Mali in the last round with little fanfare but great effectiveness. They now believe another upset is possible. With physical presence and direct play, they can hurt teams. The mental battle will be crucial: absorb Zambia's waves of pressure and strike with precision. If they leave Ndola with a respectable scoreline, all will be to play for in the second leg. Nigeria v Algeria: heavyweight clash in Ikenne Remo Stars Stadium – 19 April – 15:00 GMT Quarter-finalists at the last World Cup, the Flamingos enter the tie with a commanding reputation. On home soil, in a stadium they know intimately, Nigeria aims to settle the contest early. With an experienced core, fluid style, and international poise, the hosts are determined to avoid late drama and underline their status as continental leaders. Algeria, meanwhile, arrives without pressure. Less structured but full of ambition, this young group is evolving quickly. Aware of the challenge, they see it as a valuable opportunity. Away from home and with few certainties, they will rely on their strengths — boldness, vertical play, and relentless spirit. Kenya v Cameroon: two visions, one showdown Nyayo National Stadium – 20 April – 12:00 GMT Newcomers to the continental scene, Kenya's U-17 Harambee Starlets are turning heads. Buoyed by home support and youthful energy, they hope to carry their dream through this historic qualifier. But against Cameroon, passion alone won't be enough. They'll need composure, tactical accuracy, and the ability to manage high and low moments. Cameroon, a seasoned force in African football, won't leave room for improvisation. Preparation has been meticulous. The Lionesses are expected to bring physical intensity, territorial control, and clinical finishing. Their biggest threat: underestimating a fearless Kenyan side writing its own history. Côte d'Ivoire v Guinea: regional derby under pressure Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny – 20 April – 18:00 GMT This regional clash promises fireworks in Abidjan. Côte d'Ivoire v Guinea — two neighbours, two rebuilding projects, two contrasting styles. Backed by a rejuvenated home crowd and serious preparation, the Ivorian U-17s are looking to strike early and hard. For months, this team has been building quietly but with purpose. Now, on their turf, they have a chance to make a statement. Guinea remains unpredictable. At times, they can be devastating. With pace, strong transitions, and the element of surprise, they thrive in the shadows. Lesser known, they may use that to their advantage. The key for Guinea: stay emotionally composed in Abidjan and return to Conakry with a fighting chance.
CAF
09-03-2025
- Sport
- CAF
U-17 Women's World Cup Qualifiers: Zambia, Benin, and Burundi take first leg lead
The final day of the first-leg matches of the second round of the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup qualifiers delivered its share of surprises and impressive performances. Tanzania 0 - 3 Zambia Zambia put in a solid performance, winning 3-0 against Tanzania in a crucial match where the Copper Princesses dominated from start to finish. After a goalless first half, Grace Phiri opened the scoring in the 64th minute, giving Zambia a crucial advantage. Tanzania failed to respond to this opening goal. Mercy Chipasula then took charge, scoring a brace—first in the 80th minute and then from the penalty spot in the 89th minute—sealing a clear victory for Zambia. Zambia now stands as the favourite ahead of the return leg scheduled for next Saturday at Ndola's Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. Benin 2 - 0 DR Congo At the Kégué Stadium, Benin gained a precious advantage over the Democratic Republic of Congo, winning 2-0 with goals from Hermione Lokossou (34') and Romaine Gandonou (70'). Benin displayed great tactical control and was able to capitalize on its chances. Their attack was efficient and made the difference in this match, while the Congolese defense was put under immense pressure. They now have a slight advantage ahead of the return leg in Kinshasa, scheduled for 16 March. Cote d'Ivoire 1-3 Burundi At the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium, Cote d'Ivoire was surprised by Burundi, who won the match 3-1. This home defeat is a major blow for the Ivorians, who will need to overturn the situation in the return leg in Burundi. The Burundian team, on the other hand, showed resilience and efficiency, putting the Ivorians under pressure ahead of the second leg.
