Published on March 8By Betty Ade

Nigeriaโ€™s Flamingos moved a step closer to the 2025 FIFA U-17 Womenโ€™s World Cup after defeating South Africa 3-1 at the Lucas Moripe Stadium, Pretoria, on Saturday.

Shakirat Moshood gave Nigeria the lead after 20 minutes.

Forward Harmony Chidi doubled the Flamingosโ€™ lead from the penalty spot five minutes before the break.

However, skipper Katleho Malebana pulled a goal back for the hosts from the penalty spot two minutes after the break.

Chidi restored Nigeriaโ€™s two-goal lead with her second of the encounter in the 68th minute.The second leg will hold at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, next Saturday.

The winner on aggregate will seal a place in the final qualifying round.