Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingoes, secured a convincing 4-1 victory over New Zealand on Wednesday at the Santiago de los Caballeros, the second-largest city in the Dominican Republic and the fourth-largest city in the Caribbean by population.
Persecondnews reports that the Nigerian side dominated the match with an impressive display of skill and determination.
The Flamingoes got off to a blistering start, scoring the fastest goal of the tournament in the second minute through Shakirat Moshood, assisted by Harmony Chidi.
Taiwo Adegoke’s overlapping run led to Opeyemi Abdulwahab’s goal in the 12th minute, and Moshood’s pass to Abdulwahab increased Nigeria’s lead to 3-0 by the 28th minute.
After the break, captain Taiwo Afolabi scored Nigeria’s fourth goal in the 55th minute, courtesy of Adegoke’s assist.
New Zealand’s consolation goal came in the 60th minute through Hannah Saxon, assisted by Ela Jerez.
Nigeria’s statistical superiority was evident, with 32-3 shots on goal, 10-1 on target, 68-32% ball possession, and 528-251 passes completed.
The Flamingoes, however, committed more fouls (2-4) and earned 12-2 corner kicks without converting.
The win sets up Nigeria’s next match against Ecuador on Saturday at 2100 hours.
Meanwhile, the Dominican Republic will face Ecuador at midnight, and South Korea will play Colombia in Group B on Thursday.
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