FIFA Women’s U-17 World Cup: Flamingos set up quarter-final clash with USA

By Tosin Omojola

Nigeria secured a perfect record in the group stage of the ongoing FIFA Women’s U-17 World Cup, taking place in the Dominican Republic.

Having won their first two matches, 4-1 against New Zealand and 4-0 against Ecuador, the Flamingos wrapped up the group stage with a 1-0 win over hosts, the Dominican Republic.

Shakirat Moshood’s 89th-minute strike from 24 yards was all the Nigerians needed to secure all three points against a resilient Dominican Republic side in the two teams’ final Group A match on Wednesday morning.

Coach Bankole Olowookere made three changes to the starting lineup, bringing in Rokibat Azeez, Blessing Ifitezue, and Ramotalahi Kareem in place of Onyedikachi Ekezie, Peace Effiong, and Harmony Chidi.

Effiong and Chidi were restored after the hour mark, but it took a special effort from Moshood, scorer of the tournament’s fastest goal, to break the hearts of the hosts.

The victory means the Flamingos top their group, finishing three points ahead of second-placed Ecuador, who defeated New Zealand 4-0. Caprice Chiuchiolo netted a brace for Ecuador.

The Flamingos will face the USA in the quarter-finals on Saturday, with a semi-final place at stake.