Nigeria, Oct. 26 -- Nigeria will lead Africa's challenge in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup after qualifying alongside Ghana, hosts Morocco and Kenya.

The Flamingos finished second in Group B with six points, the highest tally among Africa's five representatives, and will face Mexico after winning two of their three group matches.

Nigeria recovered from an opening 2-1 defeat to Poland with victories over Puerto Rico (2-0) and DPR Korea (3-1) to secure their place in the knockout stage.

Ghana also advanced automatically after finishing second in Group C with four points. Following a 3-0 defeat to Norway and a 3-3 draw with Brazil, the Black Maidens beat Canada 2-0 to set up a Round of 16 meeting with Argentina. ...