2026 U-17 WWC: Venezuela coach reflects on defeat to Flamingos
Venezuela’s U-17 women’s soccer team, known as La Vinotinto, was eliminated from the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after suffering a 1-0 loss to Nigeria.
Despite being outplayed for much of the match, Venezuela’s defense held firm. The contest seemed destined for a penalty shootout until a late dramatic turn occurred. A penalty was awarded to Nigeria when Venezuelan defender Migleydys Bolsegui was ruled to have fouled Nigerian striker Oluebube Umejiaku inside the box.
Post-match, Venezuela head coach Frías praised his team’s overall performance but acknowledged a critical mistake that proved costly. “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,” he said in an interview with FIFA.
Frías expressed pride in the players’ development throughout the tournament, noting that seven members of the squad will still be eligible to compete next year. “I’m happy to see how much they’ve grown and how they’ve developed as footballers throughout the tournament,” he added. “I think they’re ready to come back and keep growing.”
