15 March 2025 – South African U17 women’s national team coach Ntombifuthi Khumalo was left disappointed after her charges suffered a 0-2 defeat (5-1 on aggregate) to their Nigeria counterparts in the away second leg FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifier played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on Saturday.
The South Africans arrived in Nigeria with a tough mountain to climb after losing the first leg 1-3 at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville a week ago. Goals from Chidi Harmony in the 37th minute and Aishat Animashaun in the 56th minute ensured passage to the final qualifying round, where they will face either Botswana or Algeria.
“I am disappointed because we did not make it to the next stage of the World Cup qualifiers, but I am also proud of my girls after their performance. This is the international stage and some of them tried their best, but Nigeria were the better team,” she said.
“For me, what I can take back home is the experience gained on this international stage, especially after facing the same opponent in the first and second round that was stronger. We all know that they are doing well in Africa in such competitions.”
Khumalo conceded that they lost the game in the set-pieces, and they need to go back and learn from the experience. South African Football Association President (SAFA) Dr Danny Jordaan consoled the team and said these qualifiers were a huge learning curve for the team.
“We feel for the players and all the members of the team after this disappointing result. But the gap between South Africa and Nigeria is closing. Congratulations to Nigeria for progressing to the next stage. But remember, 2031 is just six years from today. We are building a team for 2031 and many of our players will be 20/ 21 years old then. Today’s experience will be a huge benefit in the bigger scheme of things. Thank you to the HOD and the team for your determination and commitment, all the best,” the SAFA President said.
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