Nigeria’s Flamingos will face defending champions Korea DPR on Friday knowing that a victory or draw would secure their place in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The match presents a difficult challenge for Nigeria, with Korea DPR having made an impressive start to the tournament. The holders have won both of their Group B matches, scoring 12 goals and conceding just one to establish themselves at the top of the section.

Korea DPR have won the competition twice since the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup was launched in New Zealand in 2008. They are now aiming to claim a third successive title and have underlined their credentials with their commanding performances in Morocco.

Nigeria, who won the bronze medal in 2022, began their campaign with a 2-1 defeat by Poland. They responded by beating tournament debutants Puerto Rico 2-0, leaving them with a chance of progressing to the knockout stage before their final group match.

A positive result against Korea DPR would guarantee the Flamingos’ qualification. However, defeat would leave their hopes dependent on the outcome of the other Group B match between Poland and Puerto Rico, as well as the applicable tiebreakers.

The two nations have already met twice at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Nigeria won the first encounter 3-2 in 2010, but Korea DPR gained revenge with a 3-0 victory when the teams faced each other again in 2016.

Coach Akeem Busari and his players will therefore be seeking another strong display when the sides meet for a third time in the competition. Nigeria will need to remain disciplined in defence and make the most of their opportunities against a Korea DPR side that has been one of the tournament’s strongest teams during the group stage.

The match will be played at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Sale/Rabat, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm local time, which is 4pm Nigerian time.