Morocco thrash New Zealand 4-0 as Poland beat Nigeria at U-17 women’s world cup

By Tolu Temidire

Morocco began their 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign in impressive fashion, thrashing New Zealand 4–0, while Nigeria suffered a 2–1 defeat to Poland in their opening match of the tournament.

The Atlas Lionesses capitalised on home advantage to deliver a commanding performance against New Zealand, scoring four second-half goals to secure maximum points and boost their chances of advancing to the knockout stages.

Despite dominating much of the encounter, Morocco struggled to break down New Zealand’s defence in the first half, with the visitors’ goalkeeper producing a crucial double save from close range in the 38th minute.

However, the breakthrough eventually came in the 57th minute when Sonia Abajiou rose highest to head home a cross from Hiba Youssoufi on the right flank, sending the home crowd into celebration.

Morocco continued to pile pressure on their opponents, with Imane Dhissi hitting the post in the 67th minute following another dangerous cross from the right.

Three minutes later, the hosts doubled their advantage when New Zealand defender Eden Chaytor inadvertently turned the ball into her own net while attempting to deal with an effort from substitute Nessma Mouradi.

The Moroccans maintained their attacking intensity, extending their lead in the 76th minute through Dhissi, who finished off an impressive team move that originated from the left flank.

Youssoufi then completed the 4–0 victory by converting a penalty in the 82nd minute, capping a remarkable performance that earned her the Player of the Match award.

The victory marked a significant improvement on Morocco’s performance at the previous edition, when the team had to wait until their third match to record their first win.

The hosts will now look to build on their impressive opening result as they pursue qualification for the knockout stages.

Poland Edge Nigeria 2–1

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s campaign got off to a disappointing start as the Flamingos fell 2–1 to Poland in a competitive encounter.

Poland took the lead in the 33rd minute through Wiktoria Skrzypczak, who calmly converted a penalty after a closely contested opening period.

The European side continued to control proceedings and doubled their advantage in the 65th minute when Natalia Skrok found the back of the net with a decisive finish.

Skrok’s contribution earned her the Player of the Match award as Poland moved closer to securing all three points.

Nigeria, however, refused to surrender and fought back in the closing stages in a bid to rescue a result.

The Flamingos reduced the deficit in the 79th minute when Oluebube Rumejiaku scored from a free kick, raising hopes of a late comeback.

The goal set up a tense finish, with Nigeria pressing for an equaliser during the remaining minutes.

Poland, however, held firm defensively to preserve their advantage and secure a 2–1 victory, earning three valuable points in their opening fixture.

The result leaves Nigeria needing a strong response in their next match to strengthen their chances of progressing to the knockout stages.

Poland will face the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea in their next group fixture, scheduled for Tuesday, while Nigeria must regroup and improve their performance ahead of their next outing.

With the tournament underway, Morocco have made an emphatic statement on home soil, while Nigeria will be eager to recover from their opening setback and keep their qualification hopes alive.