FIFA U-17 WWC: Flamingos out after 0-4 loss to Italy

Nigeria, the bronze medallists from 2022, were eliminated from the current FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup on Tuesday following a 4-0 loss to Italy, who have now achieved four victories in as many matches.

The Flamingos approached the match with the intention of demonstrating that their advancement to the Round of 16 was not a mere coincidence and could have taken the lead after 24 minutes.

However, Captain Shakirat Moshood had her powerful shot from the left side of the penalty area deflected around the post by goalkeeper Matilde Robbioni.

Just before the end of the first half, Anna Copelli gave Italy the lead as she maneuvered around the Nigerian defense and accurately placed the ball past goalkeeper Sylvia Echefu.

Nigeria believed they had equalized 10 minutes into the second half when Nguemo Terlumun managed to poke the ball into the net following a determined effort by Queen Joseph, but the Video Support Review determined that Joseph had kicked the ball from Robbioni’s hands.

The Italians extended their lead three minutes later with a remarkable long-range shot from Caterina Venturelli that soared over Echefu and into the Nigerian goal.

It became 3-0 five minutes later, courtesy of Giulia Robino, and in the 89th minute, the Video Support Review confirmed that Rachelle Giudici was not in an offside position and had scored a valid fourth goal for Italy.

This defeat concluded Nigeria’s participation in the ongoing championship in Morocco.

Nevertheless, the Flamingos must promptly commence preparations for the qualifying series for next year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup finals, which has now become an annual event.