Nigeria opened their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign in the Dominican Republic on Wednesday with a convincing 4-1 victory over New Zealand at the Estadio Cibao in Santiago, highlighting the Flamingos’ strong determination of doing well at the global showpiece.
From the kick-off, Nigeria took control of the game, immediately putting the New Zealand defence under pressure.
The Nigerian attack, orchestrated by Abidemi Moshood, Taiwo Adegoke and Opeyemi Abdulwahab, created numerous chances and were duly rewarded in the 2nd minute through Abidemi Moshood, who finished off a quick move with an accurate shot.
In the 13th minute, Taiwo Adegoke doubled the lead with a powerful strike, taking advantage of a hesitation in the defence.
The Flamingos continued to dominate the game, and in the 28th minute, Opeyemi Abdulwahab scored the third goal, taking a perfectly measured cross to make it 3-0.
Nigeria kept up the pressure in the second half, and Taiwo Afolabi added a fourth goal in the 55th minute, deflecting a shot from outside the box.
Although Nigeria appeared in control, New Zealand did not give up and managed to reduce the deficit in the 60th minute thanks to Aimee Saxon, who scored from a cleverly executed free-kick.
Nigeria finished the match in clear dominance, registering a total of 30 shots, 15 of which were on target. This impressive performance is a perfect start to for the Flamingos.
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