WATCH: Beyond Limits’ equaliser steals show as Flamingos hit 17th friendly goal ahead of South Africa clash

Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, were held to a 1-1 draw by Beyond Limits U13 boys in a friendly match on Friday as they continued their preparations for the upcoming FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers against South Africa, Soccernet.ng reports.

The match, played at the Remo Stars Sports Institute in Ikenne, was the Flamingos’ third warm-up fixture since setting up camp earlier this month.

After racking up convincing wins against Nakamura FA and ANWFCC All Stars, Bankole Olowookere’s side faced a sterner test against the talented boys’ team.

The Flamingos made a blistering start, taking the lead in the 3rd minute through Aishat Animashaun, who converted calmly from the penalty spot. However, Beyond Limits grew into the game, creating several chances but failing to make them count.

Despite the Flamingos’ early advantage, the match remained evenly poised, with both sides struggling to convert opportunities.

The U13 boys’ persistence eventually paid off as they found an equalizer late in the game, courtesy of a stunning long-range strike that left the Flamingos goalkeeper with no chance.

While the result denied the Flamingos a third consecutive friendly victory, Olowookere’s team will take encouragement from their overall performance as they build towards their crucial two-legged qualifier against South Africa, scheduled for March 7 and 16.

The Flamingos have now scored 17 goals and conceded just two in their three friendly matches — a testament to their attacking brilliance and defensive solidity ahead of the decisive World Cup qualifying clash.

Earlier in their preparation, the Nigerian girls thrashed Nakamura FA 6-1 on February 22 before delivering a dominant 10-0 victory over ANWFCC All Stars on Wednesday.

With less than two weeks before their trip to South Africa, the Flamingos’ technical crew will be hoping to fine-tune the team’s tactics and fitness as they aim to secure a place at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.