flag
back Back
Nigeria’s 16-Year-Old Wins Player of the Match Award After Superb Performance

According to a report by FIFA.com on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Nigeria’s 16-year-old striker Oluwakemi Adegbuyi has been named Player of the Match after helping the Flamingos defeat Puerto Rico 2-0 at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Adegbuyi delivered an impressive performance, scoring the opening goal in the 25th minute at the Mohammed VI Football Complex. Her strike gave Nigeria an important advantage and helped the team recover from their disappointing 2-1 defeat to Poland in their opening Group B fixture.

The young forward remained a threat throughout the encounter, putting pressure on Puerto Rico’s defence and creating problems for their opponents, particularly after the interval. Her attacking contribution played a significant role in Nigeria’s efforts to secure their first three points of the tournament.

The Flamingos eventually confirmed their victory in stoppage time when substitute Precious Oscar scored in the 90th+3 minute. Oscar headed the ball into the net following a delivery from Oluebube Umejiaku, ensuring Nigeria finished the match with a two-goal advantage.

The result provides a timely boost for head coach Akeem Busari and his players as they continue their campaign in Morocco. After beginning the competition with a narrow defeat against Poland, Nigeria needed a positive response to strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stage.

Adegbuyi’s recognition also reflects her growing reputation as one of the promising young players in Nigerian women’s football. At just 16, she has continued to deliver notable performances for both her country and her club, demonstrating her potential to develop into an important figure in the game.

Earlier in 2026, the teenager was named Player of the Tournament at the WAFU-B U-17 Girls Cup after playing a key role in Nigeria’s successful campaign. She also attracted attention during the 2026 WAFU-B CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers, where she represented Edo Queens.

Her latest achievement further strengthens her standing within the Flamingos squad, with her goalscoring ability offering Nigeria an important attacking option as the tournament progresses.

Nigeria will next face defending champions Korea DPR in their final Group B match on Friday, October 23. The encounter is expected to be crucial to their qualification hopes, and the Flamingos will aim to carry the confidence gained from their victory over Puerto Rico into the decisive fixture.

You may like

How Group B Table Looks Like After Nigeria Won 2:0 And Korea DPR Won 6:1

Ifey_communication 2 hours ago

Qatar Blocks Another Player From Honouring Invitation to Play for Nigeria U23

Basitrokiba 2 hours ago

Okocha reveals interesting fact about ‘Jay Jay’ — I am still paying for the name

pulsesports.ng 1 day ago

Ukraine-Based Goalkeeper Invited to Nigeria U23 Team for U23 AFCON Qualifiers

Basitrokiba 3 hours ago

Reactions as Vincent Enyeama Shares Photo Spending Time With His Family In His Hotel on Instagram

Dgraced 20 hours ago