National Teams
U17 Women’s World Cup: Nigeria bounced out after quarterfinal loss to USA
By Monsurah Olatunji
Nigeria’s hopes of advancing in the FIFA Women’s U17 World Cup were dashed as they fell 2-0 to the United States in the quarterfinals at the Santiago de los Caballeros Stadium in the Dominican Republic.
The Flamingos entered the match with high expectations but were unable to break through a well-organized American defense that stifled their creative midfield.
The tactical prowess of the USA shone through, with Kennedy Fuller and Kimmi Ascanio capitalizing on Nigeria’s mistakes.
Just before halftime, Fuller was brought down in the box by Shakirat Moshood, earning her team a penalty following a VAR review. Fuller converted the spot-kick in the 43rd minute, giving the Americans a 1-0 lead at the break.
Nigeria had a chance to level the score early in the second half, but Taiwo Afolabi’s effort was saved by US goalkeeper Evan Osteen. The United States pressed on, doubling their lead in the 71st minute when Ascanio slotted a low shot into the bottom corner.
This decisive goal sealed Nigeria’s exit from the tournament, leaving the Flamingos to reflect on a promising campaign that ultimately fell short.
