Nigeria 1-2 Japan: Falconets' World Cup Dreams Shattered by Young Nadeshikos

• Nigeria's Falconets were eliminated from the 2024 FIFA U20 Women's World Cup after losing [2-1] to Japan in the round of 16.
• Japan's Miyu Matsunaga and Maya Hijikata scored in the 33rd and 66th minutes, respectively, while Nigeria's Olushola Shobowale scored a consolation goal in stoppage time.

Nigeria's Falconets have been eliminated from the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup after a thrilling 2-1 loss to Japan at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Colombia.

Despite a valiant effort, the team's hopes of advancing to the quarterfinals were dashed by the reigning vice champions.

The match began with Japan dominating possession and restricting Nigeria's attack. The Young Nadeshiko's persistence paid off in the 33rd minute when Miyu Matsunaga scored the opening goal, leaving goalkeeper Faith Omilana with no chance.

Nigeria pushed hard for an equalizer, with Rofibat Imuran's cross almost catching Japan's goalkeeper off guard just before halftime.

The second half saw Japan's Aemu Oyama unleash a powerful long-range shot, but it drifted away from the target. 

Maya Hijikata then doubled Japan's lead in the 66th minute, poking the ball home from a cross. 

Nigeria's Olushola Shobowale scored a consolation goal in stoppage time, but it was too little, too late.

This loss marks the end of the Falconets' journey in the 2024 FIFA U20 Women's World Cup. 

Despite their impressive performance, they will have to wait another two years to pursue their dream of winning the coveted trophy. 

The team's best finish in the competition remains their second-place finish in the 2010 and 2014 editions.

The Falconets bow out of the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, following a tough Round of 16 defeat against Japan.

What did you think of the game ? 🤔 #JPNNGA #U20WWC pic.twitter.com/atd3IoLjuj

— Home of Nigerian Football (@EaglesTrackerNG) September 13, 2024