Nigeria head coach Akeem Busari praised his players’ determination after the Flamingos secured a 1–0 quarter-final victory over Venezuela at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The result sends Nigeria back into the semi-finals for the first time since 2022, following a closely contested match at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.

Venezuela arrived with considerable confidence after producing one of the tournament’s biggest shocks by eliminating Germany in the Round of 16. However, Nigeria limited the South American side’s threat and largely forced them to rely on counter-attacks.

Those opportunities brought Venezuela only four clear chances, all of which were dealt with comfortably by Nigerian goalkeeper Jane Ijirigho.

The decisive moment came late in the second half when striker Olubebe Umejiaku was brought down inside the penalty area after a quick attacking move. Referee Hyeonjeong Oh immediately awarded a penalty, and the decision was upheld following a VAR review.

Captain Aishat Oduntan took responsibility from the spot and sent the Venezuelan goalkeeper the wrong way to settle the tie.

Speaking to FIFA.com after the final whistle, Busari said his side had maintained its effort despite not producing a perfect performance.

“We gave everything on the pitch tonight. We wanted to keep the ball and play our game, but we made some mistakes,” he said.

“Still, we kept pushing until the very end. Reaching the semi-finals is a dream come true for me and a great achievement.”

The Flamingos coach said Nigeria’s progress was particularly significant after a demanding encounter in which the team had to remain disciplined against a confident opponent.

Busari is now focused on the semi-final and said the players were determined to represent their country with distinction.

“I’m looking forward to it because I want to make my country proud,” he added. “We want to give our best in the next match and show everyone what we can do.”

Nigeria’s victory ended Venezuela’s run after their surprise success against Germany and earned the Flamingos a place in the last four of the competition.