Nigeria’s U-17 Women’s National Team, the Flamingos, have unveiled their starting XI for the semi-final encounter against Brazil at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, with Awawu Bashiru earning a starting role while Tosin Rafiu begins from the bench.
Captain Azeezat Oduntan leads the Nigerian side as the Flamingos prepare for the crucial encounter, with goalkeeper Jane Ijirigho retaining her place between the posts.
Jane Ijirigho starts in goal, protected by a back four of captain Azeezat Oduntan, Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen and Kanyinsola Yusuf.
In midfield, Mary Dunstan, Favour Nkwocha and Awawu Bashiru have been tasked with controlling proceedings, while the attacking trio of Queen Joseph, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi and Oluebube Umejiaku will lead the hunt for goals.
The Nigeria Starting XI: Jane Ijirigho; Azeezat Oduntan (C), Ohunene Sunday, Esther Stephen, Kanyinsola Yusuf; Mary Dunstan, Favour Nkwocha, Awawu Bashiru; Queen Joseph, Oluwakemi Adegbuyi, Oluebube Umejiaku.
Substitutes: Onyinyechi Opara, Mercy Felix, Elizabeth Adesuyi, Pattra Oparanmegwa, Muinat Rotimi, Tosin Rafiu, Precious Oscar, Kaosarat Akanji, Chidera Chidi, Sakirat Sarafa.
The Flamingos will be aiming to secure a historic place in the final as they face the Brazilian side in a high-stakes battle for a place in the championship match to book a place in the final of the tournament with a win over the South Americans.
