Nigeria’s Flamingos crashed out of the ongoing FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup on Tuesday following a heavy 4–0 defeat to Italy, who continued their perfect run with a fourth straight victory.
The 2022 bronze medallists had entered the Round of 16 clash in Morocco eager to prove their quality, and nearly took the lead in the 24th minute when captain Shakirat Moshood’s powerful effort from the edge of the box was brilliantly turned away by Italian goalkeeper Matilde Robbioni.
However, Italy drew first blood just before halftime. Anna Copelli weaved her way past Nigeria’s defence before calmly slotting the ball beyond goalkeeper Sylvia Echefu.
Nigeria thought they had equalised ten minutes into the second half after Nguemo Terlumun tapped home from close range following a determined run by Queen Joseph.
Their joy was short-lived, though, as the Video Support Review ruled that Joseph had kicked the ball from the goalkeeper’s hands, disallowing the goal.
Moments later, Caterina Venturelli doubled Italy’s advantage with a stunning long-range strike that soared over Echefu, and Giulia Robino made it 3–0 five minutes later.
In the 89th minute, Rachelle Giudici sealed the rout after the VSR confirmed her goal stood, having been initially flagged offside.
The loss brought an end to Nigeria’s campaign at the tournament, but the Flamingos will now turn their focus to the qualification series for the next edition of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup , now set to become an annual competition.
