Nigeria’s Flamingos moved a step closer to the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’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 Flamingos’ 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 Nigeria’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.