In its debut match at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Sale, Morocco, Canada secured a 4-1 victory over Nigeria with Melisa Kekic netting the decisive goal in the 73rd minute. Julia Amireh, also a substitute, contributed with two additional goals in the 80th and 86th minutes. The game started with Gabriela Istocki scoring for Canada in the second minute, but Nigeria’s Queen Joseph equalized in the 30th minute.
Canada regained the lead as Chloe Taylor delivered a precise pass to Kekic, who capitalized on the opportunity with a well-placed shot from the edge of the penalty box. Amireh followed up with a goal after Nigerian goalkeeper Elizabeth Boniface failed to secure the ball in the box. Amireh’s second goal came from a skillful play by captain Olivia Chisholm.
Despite Nigeria outshooting Canada 17-10 and having more corner kicks, Canada’s strong performance secured the win. The team, led by coach Jen Herst, will face Samoa next before taking on France on October 25. The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-place finishers, will advance to the Round of 16.
In the first half, Canada took an early lead through Molly Hale’s assist to Istocki, but Nigeria dominated possession and outshot Canada 13-2. Nigeria’s Joseph scored the equalizer in the 30th minute after a successful long-range shot. The first half saw both teams struggle with ball control, with Nigeria’s shots mainly coming from a distance.
Canada faced an injury setback as co-captain Emma Reda was sidelined before the tournament. Despite missing the previous U-17 tournament, Canada has a strong history in the competition, with their best finish being fourth place in 2018. The team qualified for the 2025 FIFA tournament by winning their CONCACAF qualifying group.
Nigeria, a prominent contender in previous tournaments, qualified for this year’s World Cup with impressive performances. The defending champion, North Korea, and Spain are also strong contenders in the U-17 Women’s World Cup.