Nigeria’s Falconets have suffered a painful exit from the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after losing 1-0 to Colombia.
The Falconets U-20 World Cup campaign ended in dramatic fashion on Sunday. Colombia scored in the second minute of stoppage time to settle the quarter-final.
Valerin Loboa became the hero for Colombia. She found the decisive goal in the 92nd minute after Nigeria had defended strongly for most of the match.
Nigeria Hold Colombia to Goalless First Half
Both teams struggled to find a breakthrough during the opening 45 minutes.
Nigeria created several chances but could not convert them. Colombia also threatened, with Loboa and Isabella Diaz among those who tested the Nigerian defence.
The second half produced more attacking opportunities from both sides.
Tumininu Adeshina, Favour Nkwocha, Kafayat Mafisere, Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei and Onyedikachi Ekezie all had opportunities for Nigeria.
Falconets Reduced to 10 Players
Nigeria’s task became harder in the 77th minute when Mafisere received a red card.
VAR later confirmed the dismissal, leaving the Falconets with 10 players for the closing stages.
Nigeria still refused to sit back. The coaching staff introduced Winner Onajite David, Precious Oscar and Victory Lucky at different points as the team searched for a goal.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Falconets continued to push forward.
Late Goal Ends Nigeria’s Campaign
Nigeria appeared to be heading for extra time as the match remained goalless deep into the second half.
However, Colombia delivered the decisive blow in stoppage time.
Loboa struck in the 92nd minute to give Colombia a 1-0 lead. Nigeria could not produce an equaliser before the final whistle.
Akekoromowei came close in the seventh minute of added time, but her effort failed to change the outcome.
The Falconets U-20 World Cup journey therefore ended at the quarter-final stage.
Colombia will now face either DPR Korea or Canada for a place in the semi-finals.