Nigeria’s Flamingos Soar with 4-1 Victory Over New Zealand in U-17 Women’s World Cup Opener

India, October 16, 2024 – Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, made a resounding statement in their 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup opener, thrashing New Zealand 4-1 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.

Dominant Display

The Flamingos dominated the match from the onset, with Shakirat Moshood opening the scoring in the 2nd minute. Khadijat Adegoke doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 13th minute, courtesy of a well-crafted assist from Faridat Abdulwahab.

Abdulwahab got on the scoresheet herself in the 28th minute, with Moshood providing the assist. The first half ended 3-0 in Nigeria’s favor.

New Zealand’s Consolation

New Zealand pulled a goal back in the 60th minute through Hannah Saxon, but the Flamingos responded swiftly. Taiwo Afolabi sealed the victory with Nigeria’s fourth goal in the 65th minute.

Reactions

“We’re delighted with the win,” said Bankole Olowookere, Nigeria’s head coach. “The girls played according to plan.”

“This is just the beginning,” added captain Alvine Dah-Zossu. “We’re focused on the next match.”

Implications

The victory propels Nigeria to the top of Group C, ahead of their next match against Ecuador on October 19.

Stats:

– Goals: Shakirat Moshood (2′), Khadijat Adegoke (13′), Faridat Abdulwahab (28′), Taiwo Afolabi (65′) – Nigeria; Hannah Saxon (60′) – New Zealand

– Yellow Cards: 2 (Nigeria), 1 (New Zealand)

– Attendance: 12,500

Next Fixtures:

– Nigeria vs. Ecuador (October 19)

– New Zealand vs. Germany (October 19)