Here’s a detailed report on the 2025 FIFA U‑17 Women’s World Cup Group D clash in which Nigeria U‑17 Women (the “Flamingos”) delivered a much-needed statement: Nigeria 4–0 Samoa U‑17 Women, securing their place in the knockout phase. (Oceania Football Confederation)

Match overview

On Saturday, 25 October 2025, at the Football Academy Mohammed VI in Salé, Morocco, the Flamingos faced Samoa in what had become a do-or-die clash. After back-to-back defeats — 4 – 1 to Canada and 1 – 0 to France — Nigeria were bottom of Group D and needed an emphatic win to keep their tournament alive. (Africa Top Sports)

Samoa, making their debut, had also lost their first two games and were playing purely for pride. (Oceania Football Confederation)

From the outset, Nigeria attacked with purpose.

They dominated possession, pressed high and looked to break Samoa’s defensive shape early.

• In the 13th minute, Nigerian forward Queen Joseph opened the scoring with a smart finish after a behind-the-defence ball, placing the shot into the bottom-right corner. (Oceania Football Confederation)

• Fifteen minutes later (28′) Nigeria won a penalty, converted coolly by captain Shakirat Moshood, who rolled the keeper and made it 2-0. (Oceania Football Confederation)

• Just six minutes on (34′) Joseph grabbed her second of the match, capitalising on a defensive error by Samoa. 3-0 at half-time, and Nigeria very much in control. (Oceania Football Confederation)

• In the second half (67′), Nigeria extended their tally when Azeezat Oduntan cut in from the left and curled a superb shot into the top-right corner, making it 4-0. (Oceania Football Confederation)

Defensively, Nigeria were solid – they kept Samoa off the scoresheet and limited meaningful chances.

For Samoa, their goalkeeper put in brave moments, but the early damage proved too much.

What it means: qualification secured

That 4-0 result did more than merely add a victory: it clinched Nigeria’s spot in the knockout round as one of the best third-placed teams.

With zero points after two matches, the Flamingos had needed a big win—and delivered it.

(Oceania Football Confederation)
Given the format (top 2 in each group plus four best third-place teams advance), Nigeria’s emphatic performance rescued a campaign on the brink of elimination.

For Samoa, the defeat ends their tournament run; as noted by their regional federation they leave “with heads held high” despite the result. (Oceania Football Confederation)

Key take-aways & observations

• Early momentum: Nigeria’s quick first-goal and penalty in the first half set the tone, giving them comfort to control the game.

• Clinical finishing: With four quality goals, the Flamingos showed what they can do when everything clicks. Joseph’s two were standout moments; Oduntan’s late strike sealed the job.

• Defensive discipline: After two disappointing matches, Nigeria responded with better structure and focus. Keeping a clean sheet will boost confidence.

• Mental resilience: Having entered under pressure, the players showed character.

• The required margin to qualify was high—and they responded.

• Samoa’s valiant defeat: Although the scoreline was one-sided, Samoa’s second half had some encouraging moments.

• This experience should serve them well in future tournaments.

What’s next for Nigeria

Having secured progression, Nigeria now head into the Round of 16 with momentum restored.

They will be aiming to carry the positive vibes into the knockout phase and build on this performance.

Coach Bankole Olowookere will likely use this win as a springboard: reaffirming belief, sharpening tactics, and ensuring the players remain focused.

Final thought

For the Flamingos, this match was must-win, and they delivered in style.

From being on the brink of an early exit, a confident, cohesive performance against Samoa has reignited their campaign.

Now, with qualification secured, the real tournament begins.

For Samoa, while the result was harsh, their presence on the world stage and the lessons learned will pay dividends for the future.