Nigeria’s U-17 Women’s National team, the Flamingos, lost 6-5 to Colombia after a penalty shootout during the competition’s semi-finals in India, and will now face either Spain or Germany for a chance for Bronze.
The South Americans won the lottery of a penalty shootout after defender Comfort Folorunsho hit her kick against Luisa Agudelo in sudden death, sending Colombia into the final of the 7th edition of the global football showpiece.
Flamingos goalkeeper Faith Omilana virtually kept Nigeria in the tie with five big saves, with the Flamingos’ forward-line failing to create many chances in the first half.
The inspiring Omilana foiled Caicedo severally in the second period, keeping Nigeria in the game.
However, the referee blew the final whistle as both sides couldn’t be separated after regulation time, indicating a penalty shootout as the match finished 0-0. Both teams had battled to a scoreless draw and just like it happened against the United States, on Friday.
The Flamingos’ coaching crew had thrown in second choice goalkeeper Linda Jiwuaku for the shootout, relieving the brilliant Omilana. Nigeria was a kick away from victory after Yesica Munoz saw her kick saved by Jiwuaku, whilst Gabriela Rodriguez, Stefania Perlaza, Mary Espitaleta and Linda Caicedo scored for Colombia.
Immaculata Offiong, Etim Edidiong, Miracle Usani and Taiwo Afolabi scored for Nigeria. But defender Omamuzo Edafe, who had scored Nigeria’s winner against USA in the quarter-finals, struck her kick against the upright.
In sudden death, Juana Ortegon scored just as Shakirat Oyinlola, but after Nathalia Hernandez beat Jiwuaku from the sport. Comfort Folorunsho then hit her kick against the body of Luisa Agudelo.
The result sent Colombia into the final of the 7th edition of FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup finals.
Colombia will face either Spain or Germany in the grand finale, while Nigeria will play the loser of the second semi-final in Saturday’s bronze medal match.
