Nigeria’s U-17 WNT have intensified their final preparations ahead of this weekend’s World Cup final qualifying round, first leg clash against Algeria, set to take place at the Remo Stars Stadium.
The Flamingos defeated South Africa 5-1 aggregate in the previous round, head coach Bankole Olowookere has since been in camp at the Remo Stars Sports Institute.
Algeria, on their part, overcame a first-leg 2-1 loss to Botswana in Gaborone, bouncing back in ruthless fashion to win 4-0 at home and secure their place in this final qualifying hurdle.
The Algerian delegation is expected to arrive in Lagos today (Wednesday), while match officials — all from Uganda and Burundi — will land in Nigeria on Thursday.
Ugandan referee, Shamirah Nabadda will officiate the game, assisted by Fides Bangurambona (Burundi) and Immaculate Ongiera (Uganda).
Nigeria is gunning for another appearance on the world stage after finishing third in India 2022, their best-ever World Cup placing.
The return leg will take place at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker in Blida, on April 25, with the winner on aggregate progressing to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup finals.
Morocco will host this year’s tournament, which will run from October 17 to November 8. Five African teams will participate in the newly expanded 24-nation format.
