FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup: Flamingos coach apologises for early exit

At U-17 level, margins are often shaped by development pathways, not just talent. Europe and South America have built stronger pipelines, and Nigeria is racing to close that gap

Nigeria’s journey at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup came to a painful halt on Tuesday as the Flamingos fell 4–0 to Italy in the round of 16 in Morocco; a result that triggered immediate reflection from head coach Bankole Olowookere, who tendered a public apology to disappointed supporters.

“I just have to tender my apology to our fans all over the world,” he said.

“We are sorry that our journey in this tournament has come to an end. However, there are lessons for us to learn and benefits to take away as well. The exposure and experience the girls have gained here are very important.”

A brutal scoreline, a harsh lesson

Despite flashes of promise in the group phase, Nigeria were undone by a ruthless Italian side. Anna Copelli opened the scoring moments before halftime, and the second half unravelled as Caterina Venturelli, Giulia Robino, and Rachelle Giudici added to the tally, sealing a heavy defeat.

A program finding its identity

Nigeria entered this World Cup as 2022 bronze medallists, a statement that raised expectations back home. But this edition was always going to test the nation’s depth; many players arrived with limited exposure, and the broader women’s football structure in Africa is still evolving.

At U-17 level, margins are often shaped by development pathways, not just talent. Europe and South America have built stronger pipelines, and Nigeria is racing to close that gap.

The World Cup is over, but their future lies ahead

Olowookere acknowledged the emotional sting but repositioned the defeat as part of a longer journey.

“The World Cup is over, but their future lies ahead. The end of this tournament does not mean the end of their football careers. They must see this as a learning experience,” he noted.

He expressed confidence in the squad’s long-term potential:

“Some of them are still very young and just beginning to understand what it means to play at this level. This kind of exposure will go a long way in shaping their careers and making them future superstars.”

No finger-pointing, just growth

The coach refused to blame his players, highlighting their fight and attitude.

“I give credit to them. I cannot blame them. They tried their best. They are young girls who are still developing themselves, and I believe there are good lessons to learn from this tournament. It’s not a total loss. That’s why they came, to gain experience and improve,” he said.

The next chapter begins now

With Nigeria’s campaign over, Olowookere’s focus shifts sharply to continuity; keeping momentum alive, strengthening development cycles, and ensuring these young athletes do not fade out.

“This may be the end of the road for Nigeria in this World Cup, but the journey starts now. We have to keep the girls busy, keep improving them, and continue to produce more players because, compared to the boys, they are catching up fast.”

He praised FIFA’s efforts to expand opportunities for the girl child, noting that regular competition will accelerate Nigeria’s evolution.

“In the next five years, you will see more talented players emerging, competing strongly with the boys. I am happy that FIFA has taken this initiative. It is a great opportunity for the girl child, and they will take advantage of it to develop further.”

Eyes forward: Annual World Cup cycle

The Flamingos now turn their attention to the qualifying series for the next U-17 Women’s World Cup, with the tournament now set to be staged annually. That shift represents both pressure and opportunity: more cycles, more chances, fewer excuses.

The scoreline in Morocco will sting, but in African football; especially on the women’s side, legacies are built not by avoiding failure, but by how fiercely a nation responds to it.

For Nigeria, the race for the future has just intensified.