Nigeria Moves Closer To World Cup Quarter-Finals As Another Flamingos Star Scores Against Mexico

According to a report by Flashscore on Thursday, October 29, 2026, Nigeria’s Flamingos have reportedly doubled their advantage against Mexico in their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Round of 16 encounter, with Mary Dunstan scoring in the 71st minute to put the West African representatives 2-0 ahead.

The Nigerian midfielder’s goal came at a crucial moment in the second half, providing much-needed relief for head coach Akeem Busari and his players after Mexico had increased their attacking pressure following the halftime break.

Nigeria initially took the lead through Oluebube Umejiaku, who found the back of the net in the 40th minute to give the Flamingos a narrow advantage heading into the interval.

However, the Mexican side returned for the second half with renewed determination, attempting to find an equaliser and keep their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals alive.

Despite the pressure, Nigeria reportedly managed to extend their advantage when Dunstan scored in the 71st minute, giving the Flamingos a two-goal cushion with less than 20 minutes of regulation time remaining.

The goal represents another important contribution from Dunstan, who has played a significant role in Nigeria’s performances throughout the tournament.

The talented midfielder previously provided the assist for Oluwakemi Adegbuyi’s opening goal during Nigeria’s impressive 3-1 victory over defending champions North Korea in their final group-stage encounter.

Her ability to contribute to attacking movements has made her an important member of Busari’s squad, particularly during matches where Nigeria require creativity and composure in midfield.

Before Dunstan’s reported goal, Busari had already made an attacking substitution in the 67th minute, introducing Precious Oscar in place of Adegbuyi.

Oscar previously scored Nigeria’s second goal during their 2-0 group-stage victory over Puerto Rico, demonstrating her ability to make an impact when introduced from the substitutes’ bench.

Nigeria’s reported second goal against Mexico could prove decisive because the Flamingos had experienced periods of pressure during the opening stages of the second half.

With a two-goal advantage, the Nigerian players will now be hoping to maintain their defensive organisation and prevent Mexico from finding a way back into the encounter.

The Flamingos entered Thursday’s knockout fixture after finishing second in Group B with six points from three matches.

Nigeria suffered a 2-1 defeat against Poland in their opening encounter before recovering with victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions North Korea.

Their remarkable victory against North Korea strengthened their confidence and demonstrated their ability to compete against some of the strongest teams in the tournament.

Mexico, meanwhile, also qualified for the Round of 16 after finishing second in Group F, following victories over Chile and Australia.

The North American representatives entered the encounter determined to continue their impressive campaign, but Nigeria’s reported goals from Umejiaku and Dunstan have placed them in a difficult position.

A victory for the Flamingos would secure qualification for the quarter-finals, where Venezuela await the winner of the encounter.

Busari will now be hoping his players remain focused throughout the closing stages, knowing that conceding a goal could give Mexico renewed confidence.

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