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Enioluwa Adeniyi
Guest
The Nigerian women’s national team, known as the Flamingos, kicked off their campaign in the FIFA Women’s U-17 World Cup with an impressive 4-1 victory against New Zealand on Wednesday at the CFC Stadium.
The Flamingos showcased their attacking prowess by scoring three goals in the first half, setting the tone for a commanding performance. Shakirat Moshood, Khadijat Adegoke, Friday Abdulwahab, and Taiwo Afolabi all contributed to the scoreline, while Hannah Saxon netted a consolation goal for New Zealand.
Moshood opened the scoring just two minutes into the match, powering a low strike from inside the penalty area that found the back of the net.
The team quickly gained momentum, with Adegoke doubling the lead in the 13th minute. The defender unleashed a long-range effort that was fumbled into the net, bringing the score to 2-0.
Abdulwahab then added a third goal before halftime, striking beautifully from 25 yards out following a short corner kick routine, leaving New Zealand’s defense reeling.
The Flamingos did not ease up after the break; just ten minutes into the second half, team captain Afolabi scored with a looping header, further extending Nigeria’s lead to 4-0. Afolabi’s standout performance earned her the title of man of the match.
Despite a spirited effort from New Zealand, which culminated in a consolation goal from Saxon, the Flamingos maintained control throughout the match.
With this victory, the Nigerian team currently sits atop Group A with three points, while New Zealand find themselves at the bottom.
The Flamingos will look to build on this success in their next group match against Ecuador on Saturday, October 19, as they aim to secure a spot in the knockout stages of the tournament.
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