Nigeria’s Flamingos launched their 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign in style with a commanding 4-1 victory over New Zealand at Estadio Cibao in the Dominican Republic. The young Nigerian side dominated from start to finish, showcasing their attacking prowess in a thrilling opener.
The game began in electrifying fashion, as Shakirat Moshood fired Nigeria ahead just 90 seconds into the match, giving the Flamingos an early advantage. Moshood’s goal came in the 2nd minute, setting the tone for the encounter, with Nigeria’s attack looking sharp and determined.
Taiwo Adegoke quickly added a second goal in the 13th minute, capitalizing on New Zealand’s defensive lapse to extend the Flamingos’ lead. As the pressure mounted, Faridat Abdulwahab delivered a stunning third goal in the 28th minute, leaving the New Zealand defense scrambling and putting Nigeria firmly in control at halftime.
In the second half, Taiwo Afolabi restored Nigeria’s three-goal cushion with a 55th-minute strike, assisted by Harmony Chidi. New Zealand’s efforts to fight back resulted in a consolation goal from Hannah Saxon in the 60th minute, assisted by Ela Jerez, but it wasn’t enough to stop Nigeria from cruising to a comfortable victory.
Nigeria’s impressive display of clinical finishing and dominant possession left New Zealand with little chance to recover.
The win places the Flamingos in a strong position as they aim to make a deep run in the tournament.
Full-time: New Zealand 1 – 4 Nigeria
- Shakirat Moshood (2nd minute)
- Taiwo Adegoke (13th minute)
- Faridat Abdulwahab (28th minute)
- Taiwo Afolabi (55th minute, assisted by Harmony Chidi)
- Hannah Saxon (60th minute, assisted by Ela Jerez – consolation goal)
A goal-fest in Estadio Cibao, Dominican Republic!