Bala Nkiyu's side, arguably the best U17 in recent times, are without a defeat in 7 matches.
They head into not only this match, but the entire tournament, as favourites. And given their ability to get the job done when it matters most in competitive matches, it's hard to argue against such assertions.
Gao Hong's China PR arrive as favourites to qualify with Nigeria from Group D, ahead of the other two sides in the group, Mexico and Colombia.
They emerged the Asia qualifying campaign's second best goal-scorers, although they were 13 goals shy of free-scoring Japan.
Nonetheless, with the likes of Yao Wei, Liu Yan and Qin Manman amongst their number, they aren't without stars themselves. If Hong side can click in a similar manner to the qualifier, then they have a chance of making an impact, starting in Alajuela.
In all friendly matches the Flamingoes haven't been beaten since a 3-1 loss to River Angels in January 2014, 7 matches ago.
Their last friendly match saw a composed, determined performance as a commendable draw against Belgium U17 women in Brussels was well applauded by pundits of the game. Expect this match against China to be treated with all seriousness.
In qualifying for Costa Rica 2014, China as hosts made light work of the group phase with defeats of Bahrain and Australia. Despite losing to Korea DPR 3-1 in the semi-finals, the home side rallied to draw 2-2 with Thailand thanks to a dramatic injury-time leveller, before winning a tense penalty shoot-out win to book progression.
Nigeria qualified for the finals of the under-17 competition without playing a single match. Together with South Africa, the West Africans received a bye into the final round of the preliminaries, where they were drawn against South Sudan, who themselves had advanced to the second round after Morocco withdrew from the competition. However, the East Africans pulled out of the competition before the first match, giving Nigeria a place at the finals without the chance to kick a ball.
Team News (Nigeria)
There are no injuries in the camp of the Nigerian team. Joy Bokiri will step in alongside Tessy Biahwo in the double-pivot at the base of midfield, with Rashidat Ajibade taking a place in the engine room. Given it's the first game in a tournament, expect Bala Nkiyu to go with an all attack system.
Elsewhere, Joy Duru and Patience Dike are currently battling for a spot at left-back, whilst Mary Ologbosere's recent good showings—particularly against Ghana in February—have placed pressure on Ayomide Anibaba.
In attack, powerful Chinwendu Ihezuo should get the nod, whilst the wing dazzlers would be Aminat Yakubu and Uchenna Kanu.
The likely starters: Onyinyechukwu, Mary, Joy, Esther, Ugochi, Bokiri, Tessy, Rashidat, Aminat, Uchenna, Chinwendu
Team News (China PR)
Gao Hong is likely to stick with Wu Yue at centre-forward, expect Liu Yan to drift to the right in an attempt to help out in midfield.
In defence Hu Yuanxin is likely to start alongside captain Yao Wei. Wan Ruyi should start once more at left back with Cui Yuhan in an advanced position.
The likely starters: Jingying, Ruyi, Yuanxin, Wei, Ying, Jinfang, Yuhan, Manman, Yan, Yue, Jiameng
Players to Watch
Chinwendu Ihezuo
On the back of a tremendous season in the Nigeria Women Football League helping Pelican Stars to a 3rd place finish in the Pool B of the 2012/13 Abridged League, the powerful lad will hope to replicate the form of Azerbaijan 2012, where she netted 5 goals against the hosts.
Described as a "complete player" by Bala Nkiyu, the Pelican Stars skipper has proven herself amongst Nigeria's best central attackers over the past 24 months, a mixture of imperious strength, smart positioning and knack for goals.
This tournament presents Chinwendu the chance to gatecrash to the U20 side's squad for Canada 2014.
Her performance in the friendlies against Ghana U17 women, Sporting Huelva, Clube Futebol Benfica, and Belgium U17 women were excellent. Nonetheless, the Azerbaijan silver ball winner is knocking on the door, and if she can carry her recent form into the World Cup, then opponents could be sure of seeing the Lioness in full force.
Wu Yue
5 goals scored during the qualifiers wasn't an easy task. On her shoulder lies the hope of the team, but recently she suffered a dip in form.
Expect Yue to be looking to press her credentials from the outset.
Expert Edge
The Nigerians will likely dominate possession in their usual robust style and dictate proceedings, but you can never rule out the Chinese team.
The likes of Yue and Yuhan, can trouble the Ugochi Emenayo led defence line and could make things very uncomfortable for the Nigerians in Alajuela, particularly if they're at their counter-attacking best.
Nonetheless, Bala Nkiyu's side are in the habit of grinding out results whenever necessary, and with that in mind expect them to do just enough to secure victory in Group D.
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