Venezuela head coach Dayana Frías has reflected on her side’s narrow defeat to Nigeria’s Flamingos in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, Completesports.com reports.
The South Americans crashed out of the competition following a 1-0 loss to Nigeria, who secured their place in the semi-finals.
Although Venezuela struggled to match the Flamingos’ intensity, La Vinotinto put up a determined defensive performance, keeping the Nigerian side at bay for much of the encounter.
The game appeared destined for a penalty shootout before Nigeria were awarded a late spot-kick after Venezuela defender Migleydys Bolsegui was adjudged to have fouled Oluebube Umejiaku.
Read Also:FIFA U-17 WWC: Dominant Flamingos Defeat Venezuela 1-0, Set Up Semifinal Clash With Brazil
Azeezat Oduntan stepped up and calmly converted the penalty to hand Nigeria a crucial victory and book their place in the last four.
Frías Reflects On Defeat To Flamingos
Frías admitted that a costly mistake proved decisive but expressed satisfaction with her team’s overall performance and development throughout the tournament.
“It was a good performance overall, but I think we made one mistake and paid for it. As for the experience, it’s been really beautiful and rewarding,” Frías told FIFA.
“I’m happy to see how much they’ve grown and how they’ve developed as footballers throughout the tournament. We also have seven players who are eligible to play again next year, so I think they’re ready to come back and keep growing.”


