The journey to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup resumed on Saturday, March 8 with fixtures taking place. Below is a summary of the results:
Nigeria asserts its dominance over South Africa (3-1)
Going into the tie as favourites, Nigeria secured a convincing 3-1 win away from home against South Africa. A brace by Shakirat Moshood and solitary strike by Harmony Chidi was enough to see the Nigerians secure the victory in Pretoria.
Kenya surprises Uganda in Kampala (2-0)
In an all-East African duel, Kenya pulled off an impressive victory over Uganda on their home turf. Nasipwondi and Ogola scored for the Junior Starlets, who managed the pressure well and converted their chances. This victory puts Kenya in a strong position ahead of the return leg in Nairobi.
Cameroon shines against Ethiopia (5-2)
Cameroon where clinical in front of goal as they cruised past Ethiopia 5-2. With a well-organized team performance, Cameroon quickly took the lead and gave no chance to their East Africans.
The commanding victory puts Cameroon in a strong position to advance in the ahead of the second leg.
Guinea and Sierra Leone (2-2)
Guinea and Sierra Leone could not be separated on Saturday after an exciting duel that concluded 2-2 to set up what promises to be another exciting duel in the return leg between the two sides.
Algeria stunned by Botswana (2-1)Algeria was defeated by a clinical Botswana team that made the most of their few opportunities to score. Despite dominating possession, the Algerians couldn’t break through and were duly punished by the Southern African nation who found two goals that secured the 2-1 victory.
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.
SOURCE: CAF Online.
