THE Flamingos of Nigeria defeated Liberia 4-1 in Monrovia today in a FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final qualifying round, first leg encounter to inch closer to securing a ticket.
The Flamingos, who reached the semi-finals at the last World Cup, scored through Abidemi Moshood, Peace Effiong, Chidi Harmony and Blessing Ifitezue to take a commanding 4-0 lead in Monrovia before the hosts pulled one back.
Moshood got the Flamingos on their way in the 19th minute with a fine goal after a solo run.
Peace Effiong, who got a brace in the 6-0 victory over Burkina Faso at the MKO Abiola National Stadium last month, scored in the 29th minute to double Nigeria’s advantage.
Top scorer Harmony, who netted six of the 12 goals against Central African Republic, and four in the 7-1 dismissal of Burkina Faso in the last round, headed home her 11th goal of the qualifying series in the 36th minute to put daylight between both teams.
On resumption, the Flamingos continued to dominate, and substitute Ifitezue made it 4-0 with 16 minutes left.
Liberia scored a consolation goal with five minutes left, from the penalty spot through Yassah Gwaikolo, after substitute Onyedikachi Ekezie was adjudged to have committed a foul in the box.
The Flamingos will return to Nigeria on Tuesday, and immediately commence preparations for the return fixture scheduled for Friday at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
