Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, will take on Italy today, Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in a crucial Round of 16 fixture at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat, Morocco. The match will be played at Pitch 2 of the Football Academy Mohamed VI, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 PM (Nigerian Time).
This encounter marks the first-ever meeting between Nigeria and Italy at this stage of the tournament — a contest that promises intensity, skill, and high stakes, as both teams vie for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Italy’s Form and Strengths
The Azzurre have been one of the standout teams in the competition, cruising through Group A with a perfect record.
- Italy 4–3 Brazil
- Italy 3–1 Morocco
- Italy 3–0 Costa Rica
Forward Giulia Galli has been the driving force behind Italy’s impressive run, leading the tournament’s goal chart with five goals. Her sharp finishing and movement in the final third make her the key threat Nigeria must contain. Italy will be eager to maintain their unbeaten streak and underline their credentials as title contenders.
Nigeria’s Journey So Far
The Flamingos advanced to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams, showing flashes of brilliance despite a tough start in the group phase.
- Nigeria 1–4 Canada
- Nigeria 0–1 France
- Nigeria 4–0 Samoa
That emphatic win over Samoa showcased Nigeria’s attacking depth and fighting spirit, with the team rediscovering confidence just in time for the knockout rounds. Coach Bankole Olowookere’s side will be banking on their pace, pressing, and teamwork to upset the in-form Italians.
What to Expect
With Italy’s attacking flair clashing against Nigeria’s resilience and determination, fans can expect a high-tempo and fiercely contested match. The Flamingos will need to stay compact defensively while capitalizing on counterattack opportunities to stand a chance against the technically gifted Italians.
Kickoff Details
- Fixture: Italy (U-17) vs Nigeria (U-17)
- Competition: FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – Round of 16
- Venue: Pitch 2, Football Academy Mohamed VI, Rabat, Morocco
- Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 8:00 PM (Nigerian Time)
Both sides will be gunning for a quarterfinal spot in what promises to be one of the most exciting matches of the round.
