Joe
Nigeria’s Falconets secured a 1-0 victory at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota, over Korea Republic in a thrilling encounter that secured the maximum three points for the two-time silver medalists.
Flourish Sabastine’s late strike was all that Nigeria needed against Korea Republic, to put the Falconets in a strong position to advance to the Round of 16 at the 11th FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
The match, characterized by few clear-cut chances, saw Nigeria create more opportunities, especially in an eventful second half. Forward Mary Lucky Mkpa was a constant threat, though she missed several key chances to give Nigeria an earlier lead.
The Koreans, who had also lost to Nigeria by a single goal in the last edition of the tournament in Costa Rica, nearly took the lead in the 15th minute, but a crucial intervention by Shukurat Oladipo thwarted their effort.
A nervy moment for Nigeria came in the 28th minute when goalkeeper Shukurat Bakare missed a cross, but a fortunate touch from a Korean player sent the ball over the bar.
Nigeria’s best chance of the first half came when Rofiat Imuran set up Mkpa, who, unfortunately, fired high. Just before the break, Korea’s Myeyung struck the crossbar with a powerful free-kick from 22 yards, keeping the scoreline level.
The second half saw Nigeria push for a breakthrough, with Sabastine and Amina Bello both seeing their shots blocked. Substitute Chiamaka Okwuchukwu also came close after a promising run down the right flank.
The decisive moment arrived when Sabastine, from the right wing, curled a shot that hit the upright and rolled into the net, securing the only goal of the match.
With this victory, the Falconets now prepare to face three-time champions Germany at the same venue on Wednesday evening.
