Flamingos’ head coach, Bankole Olowookere, has revealed how Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team achieved a perfect group stage record at the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.
The result secured a perfect group stage record for Nigeria and set up a quarter-final clash with the USA. Notably, this marks the third time in FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup history that the Flamingos have achieved an unbeaten group stage finish.
Reacting on his social media page after their 1-0 victory over host nation Dominican Republic, Olowookere praised the team’s resilience and focus in sticking to their objectives despite tough conditions.
“Spirited performance from the squad against the host nation, Dominican Republic. We stay glued to our objectives and goals at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.” Olowokere wrote on his Social media page.
The Flamingos encountered tough opposition under challenging weather conditions, with rain hampering their usual fluid play. Despite dominating possession, they found it difficult to break down the Dominican Republic’s defence, led by Captain Renata Mercedes and goalkeeper Rondon, who repelled numerous Nigerian attacks, including 16 corners.
It was Shakirat Moshood who finally made the breakthrough in the 89th minute, scoring her fourth goal of the tournament with a powerful strike from 24 yards to seal all three points.
The goal not only handed Nigeria the win but also ensured they topped Group A, three points clear of second-placed Ecuador, who defeated New Zealand 4-0 in their final group game.
Olowookere made several changes to his line-up, including bringing in Rokibat Azeez, Blessing Ifitezue, and Ramotalahi Kareem, before restoring Peace Effiong and Harmony Chidi later in the game.
However, it was Moshood’s spectacular effort that ultimately decided the contest, sending the Flamingos into the quarter-finals with confidence.
With this victory, Nigeria will now face the USA in a highly anticipated quarter-final match on Saturday.