Nigeria’s U-17 Women’s football team, the Flamingos, have been eliminated from the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup by Colombia on penalties (6-5) after a 0-0 scoreline in regulation time, at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao, India.
The Flamingos started the stronger of the two sides dominating possession, but failed to test the Colombian goalkeeper. Play was suspended in the 18th minute after there was a clash of heads between Edidiong Etim and Mary Espitaleta.
In the 29th minute, goalkeeper Omilana made a brilliant save to keep the Flamingos in the game as she parried away Espitaleta’s free kick, striking the crossbar before saving the rebound.
In the 44th minute, Colombia found the back of the net, but it was ruled out for offside.
The second half, Flamingos coach Bankole Olowookere substituted Tumininu Adeshina for Opeyemi Ajakaye. Moments later, a misplaced pass by Shakirat Oyinlola was turned into a counter attack by Yesica Munoz, but Omilana made another brilliant save.
In the 57th minute, Ajakaye saw her close range effort saved by Luisa Aguedo. In the 70th minute, Omilana then stopped Caicedo’s brilliant shot from putting the Colombians ahead.
Coach Olowookere brought on penalty specialists Edem Offiong and Chikamso Jiwuaku for Amina Bello and Faith Omilana, respectively, just before the end of the game.
However, Colombia defeated Nigeria 6-5 with Edafe and Folorunsho missing their kicks, while Offiong, Etim, Usani, Afolabi and Oyinlola converted from the spot.
Congratulations to Colombia’s U-17 Women after claiming victory in the tough encounter. Heartbreaking for the Nigerians to go out on penalties, but what a journey. The epitome of team spirit and togetherness.
Nigeria will play either defending champions Spain or Germany for third place in the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup on Sunday.
We have our first #U17WWC finalist! 🔥
Congratulations, @FCFSeleccionCol! 👏 #KickOffTheDream pic.twitter.com/NloZcpdfIY
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) October 26, 2022
