RismadarVoice Reporters
November 13, 2026
Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team captain, Harmony Chidi, has revealed how her mother initially opposed her ambition to become a professional footballer, preferring that she get married instead.
The 17-year-old disclosed this during an interview with BBC News Pidgin following Nigeria’s historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Chidi, who led the Flamingos to their first world title, said her football journey was marked by family opposition, personal losses and injuries that threatened her career.
According to the Bayelsa Queens striker, her mother discouraged her from playing football following the early death of her father.
However, her grandmother supported her ambition and encouraged her to continue pursuing the sport despite the difficulties.
Chidi disclosed that her grandmother, who played an important role in her early development, had since passed away.
She also acknowledged the contribution of her foster father, Prince Chidi, owner of her grassroots club, Imo Strikers, whom she credited with providing encouragement and opportunities to develop her talent.
Reflecting on the challenges she encountered, the young footballer described a serious injury as one of the most difficult experiences of her career.
She said the setback threatened her ambition, particularly when some friends withdrew their support during her recovery.
Despite the difficulties, Chidi eventually returned to competitive football and earned the opportunity to captain Nigeria at the global tournament.
The Flamingos defeated Japan 2-1 in the final on November 7, becoming the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute before Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s advantage shortly after halftime.
Japan reduced the deficit through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, but Nigeria held on to secure the historic victory.
Looking ahead, Chidi said she hopes to achieve greater success and establish herself among the world’s leading footballers.
She identified Victor Osimhen, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Raphinha and Nigerian women’s football star Asisat Oshoala as players she admires.
The teenager expressed particular admiration for Oshoala, saying her ambition is to surpass the achievements of the former African Women’s Footballer of the Year.
Chidi’s account highlights the personal challenges she overcame before leading Nigeria to a landmark achievement in women’s football.
