Africa U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers first-leg action brings upsets, dominant actions
Kenya pulled off an impressive away victory over Uganda in an all-East African duel.
The first-leg action of the second round of the African qualifiers for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup closed its curtains today after a two-day weekend filled with entertainment across the participating countries.
The first-leg matches played on March 8 and 9 saw teams surprise their opponents, some stun, while two fixtures ended in draws.
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First leg – March 8: Nigeria and Kenya shine
Kenya pulled off an impressive away victory over Uganda in an all-East African duel. Goals from Nasipwondi and Ogola secured the win for the Junior Starlets, who handled the pressure well and capitalised on their chances. This result puts Kenya in a strong position ahead of the return leg in Nairobi.
Algeria suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat to a clinical Botswana side that made the most of their chances. Despite dominating possession, Algeria struggled to break through and was punished by the Southern African nation, who struck twice to seal a famous victory.
Nigeria asserted its dominance over South Africa with a commanding 3-1 away win. Shakirat Moshood netted a brace, while Harmony Chidi added a goal to secure victory in Pretoria, reinforcing Nigeria’s superiority over their hosts.
Meanwhile, Cameroon was ruthless in front of goal as they cruised past Ethiopia with a 5-2 win.
A well-organised performance saw them take control early and leave no chance for their East African opponents. The emphatic victory puts Cameroon in a strong position ahead of the second leg.
Guinea and Sierra Leone could not be separated in an exciting 2-2 draw on Saturday, setting up an intense return leg between the two sides.
March 9: Tanzania suffer a blow, Benin, Burundi share spoils
Tanzania suffered a home defeat, falling 3-0 to Zambia, whose goals came in the second half.
Grace Phiri found the net in the 65th minute, Mercy Chipasula extended the lead in the 80th minute, and later sealed the convincing victory with a well-taken penalty.
Tanzania will travel to Zambia in an attempt to revive their hopes.
Elsewhere, Benin and DR Congo could not be separated, with both sides finding the net once in a 1-1 draw. The match between Ivory Coast and Burundi also ended in a stalemate at 2-2.
The second-leg matches are set to take place as follows:
On Wednesday, 12 March, Burundi will host Ivory Coast. The action continues on Saturday, 15 March, with Ethiopia hosting Cameroon, Zambia facing Tanzania, Nigeria taking on South Africa, and Guinea clashing with Sierra Leone.
The fixtures will conclude on Sunday, March 16, as Kenya hosts Uganda, DR Congo meets Benin, and Algeria welcomes Botswana.
The winners from these ties will progress to the third round, bringing them closer to securing one of the four available spots for African teams at the World Cup.
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