With their hopes of progressing hanging in the balance after a defeat to Spain in their opening Group F match and a goalless draw against China, Nigeria’s Falconets responded emphatically yesterday, thrashing New Caledonia 10-1 to book their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.
The commanding victory at the Stadion Miejski ŁKS Łódź secured Nigeria’s progression to the knockout stage and also represented the team’s biggest winning margin in the tournament so far.
Onajite David was the star of the encounter, scoring a hat-trick in the 60th, 75th and stoppage-time minutes. Ramotalahi Kareem, Rebecca Adegbemile and Tosin Rafiu were also among the scorers as Nigeria’s attacking display overwhelmed the New Caledonian defence, particularly in the second half.
The Falconets intensified their pressure after the interval, creating chances in quick succession. Janet Akekoromowei, Amber Ogbolu and Kareem all came close as Nigeria maintained relentless pressure on their opponents.
Set pieces also played an important role, with Tumininu Adeshina and Rafiu delivering a series of dangerous corners that kept New Caledonia under sustained pressure.
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Head coach Moses Aduku made strategic use of his substitutes, bringing on Amber Ogbolu, Victory Lucky and Bright Effiong Etim in the 62nd and 79th minutes. The changes helped Nigeria maintain their intensity and contributed to the late flurry of goals.
New Caledonia managed to score a consolation goal through Joceline Kourevi in the 89th minute, but David completed her hat-trick in stoppage time to round off a memorable victory for the Falconets.
The result saw Nigeria finish the group stage second in Group F with four points from three matches, following their 2-0 defeat to Spain and 0-0 draw with China PR. The emphatic victory also boosted their goal difference and secured their place in the last 16.
Nigeria will now face Group E winners England in the Round of 16 on Thursday, with Aduku and his players hoping to carry their momentum into the knockout stage.
Reacting to the impressive victory, NFF Acting General Secretary Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme praised the team for their determination and fighting spirit.
“The Presidency through the National Sports Commission, the NFF and Nigerian football stakeholders, and I believe all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, are very proud of the outing of the Falconets against New Caledonia. They showed the true Nigeria spirit and overcame the odds when it mattered most.”
Ikpeme urged the team to maintain their winning mentality as they prepare for the next challenge.
“The result has taken them to the Round of 16, and we believe the team can only get better. I charge them to sustain the win-mentality and go all the way.”
With their place in the knockout stage secured, the Falconets will now look to build on their record-breaking performance against New Caledonia when they take on England.
