NIGERIA’S Flamingos secured a 4-1 victory over New Zealand last night at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.
Shakirat Moshood, Taiwo Adegoke, Faridat Abdulwahab and Taiwo Afolabi struck for the Flamingos before Hannah Saxon pulled one back for New Zealand as the Nigerians began the tournament on a solid note.
Moshood began the rout with one of the fastest goals ever in the competition, netting within the first 80 seconds at the CFC Stadium.
Defender Adegoke doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 13th minute as her long-range shot was palmed into the net by the New Zealand goalkeeper.
The ball was confirmed to have crossed the line and adjudged to be a goal after Video Assistant Referee checks.
The Flamingos were in control and hit the New Zealand post twice before the third goal arrived.
After captain Afolabi’s shot was pushed behind, the Flamingos struck from the resultant corner kick, with Abdulwahab lifting the ball over the goalkeeper from close range in the 28th minute.
It was 4-0 eight minutes into the second half as Afolabi’s looping header sailed into the net.
Saxon scored a consolation goal for New Zealand on the hour mark, shooting past Flamingos goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma after a corner kick.
Up next for Bankole Olowookere’s side are debutants Ecuador on Saturday.
