Nigeria’s Flamingos defeated defending champions Korea DPR 3–1 on Friday to qualify for the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The Nigerian girls, coached by Akeem Busari, produced an impressive display to overcome the two-time defending champions and finish their Group B campaign with six points.

Oluwakemi Adegbuyi opened the scoring in the 15th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s lead seven minutes before half-time, converting a pass from Tosin Rafiu in the 38th minute.

Kanyinsola Yusuf extended the Flamingos’ advantage in the 56th minute with a superb free-kick to put Nigeria firmly in control.

Korea DPR reduced the deficit through Yu Jong Hyang in the 82nd minute, but Nigeria held on to secure a memorable victory.

Adegbuyi appeared to have added a fourth goal for Nigeria in the 88th minute, but the effort was ruled out following a video review after the referee identified a foul in the build-up.

The victory marked a strong response from the Flamingos, who began their campaign with a 2–1 defeat to Poland before bouncing back with a 2–0 win over Puerto Rico.

Poland defeated Puerto Rico 6–2 in the other Group B match, leaving Poland, Nigeria and Korea DPR level on six points at the end of the group stage.

The Flamingos’ victory over the defending champions secured their passage into the knockout stage as they continue their quest for a strong finish at the tournament.