Benin coach Azonsou confident Young Amazons can shock Flamingos, reach first U-17 Women's World Cup

Benin U-17 women's coach Idah Azonsou says his Young Amazons can eliminate Nigeria's Flamingos and secure the country's first-ever FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup qualification. Speaking after Benin's 3-2 first-leg loss to Nigeria at Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne last weekend, Azonsou expressed confidence ahead of the return leg.

The second leg is scheduled for this Saturday, July 11, 2026 at Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo. Azonsou acknowledged Nigeria's status as women's football powerhouses but emphasized his team's determination to achieve historic qualification: 'We know Nigeria is one of the powerhouses of women's football, so it will be a very difficult match. But we also want to qualify for our first-ever FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.'

This match represents Benin's best chance yet to reach a FIFA women's World Cup tournament at any age level. The Young Amazons showed resilience in the first leg despite the loss, and now have home advantage in Togo for the decider. Will Azonsou's confidence translate to victory on Saturday, or will the Flamingos' experience prevail in this West African showdown?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/09/u-17-wwcq-azonsou-confident-benin-can-eliminate-flamingos/