Nigeria’s Under 17 women’s football team, the Flamingos, defeated hosts Dominican Republic 1-0 in their final Group A game on Wednesday at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
A late strike from Shakirat Moshood earned Nigeria the important victory.
It was the Flamingos’ third win in Group A after beating New Zealand 4-1 and thrashing Ecuador 4-0.
Moshood’s goal against Dominican Republic means she now has four goals.
The Flamingos will now take on the United States of America in the quarter-finals on October 26, 2024.
The Americans are second in Group B behind Spain, after securing two wins and one defeat.
They fell 3-1 to Spain in their opening group game before bouncing back to defeat Colombia 2-0 and South Korea 5-0.
At the 2022 U-17 Women’s World Cup in India, the Flamingos defeated the USA 4-3 on penalties after regulation time ended 1-1.
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In Tuesday’s clash with Dominican Republic, the Flamingos thought they had taken the lead in the 15th minute but Moshood’s goal was ruled out for an offside after VAR review.
In the 28th minute, Flamingos captain Taiwo Afolabi fired from a distance to force a save from Dominican keeper.
With 10 minutes left in the first half Dominican Republic went close to opening the score following a defensive mixup by the Flamingos, but the effort was saved.
In the 74th, Adegoke almost gave the Flamingos the lead. Unfortunately, she missed the chance.
The deadlock was eventually broken in the 89th minute with Moshood’s strike from distance that ended at the back of the net.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
