Nigeria’s Flamingos began their 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign in style with a commanding 4-1 victory in their Group A opener on Wednesday.
Shakirat Moshood, Khadijat Adegoke, Faridat Abdulawahab, and Taiwo Afolabi found the back of the net for Nigeria, while Hannah Saxon scored the lone goal for New Zealand.
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Moshood gave the Flamingos an early lead just two minutes into the game, receiving a pass, beating her defender, and slotting a low left-footed shot into the bottom corner.
In the 13th minute, Adegoke extended Nigeria’s advantage with a long-range effort that the New Zealand goalkeeper fumbled, allowing the ball to cross the line despite her attempts to recover.
The Flamingos went up 3-0 when Abdulawahab curled a stunning strike from outside the box, putting Nigeria firmly in control.
Team captain Afolabi added the fourth goal with a well-placed header from a cross, further sealing the dominant performance.
New Zealand responded with a consolation goal from Saxon, who latched onto a corner kick, controlling the ball before firing a left-footed shot past the Nigerian keeper.
Nigeria will return to action on Saturday, October 19, facing tournament debutants Ecuador.
Later on Wednesday, hosts Dominican Republic will take on Ecuador in the other Group A fixture.
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