Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – Nigeria was “on fire” on Wednesday, crushing New Zealand 4-1 in an opening match at the 2024 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup in Dominican Republic.
A rapid-fire start by Nigeria set the platform for a 4-1 win against New Zealand in the sides’ opening group game at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The Africans took the lead after only two minutes at the CFC Stadium in Santiago De Los Caballeros, and had extended the margin to 3-0 within half an hour.
Overall, New Zealand were outplayed in terms of possession, territory and shots on goal.
The Nigerians created 32 attempts on goal, compared to New Zealand’s three.
Nigeria, who took the bronze medal at the last FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup in India, took the initiative in the second minute when Harmony Chidi set up Shakirat Moshood for the game’s opening goal.
Khadijat Adegoke doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 13th minute when she smashed home a shot that slipped through the hands of New Zealand goalkeeper Brooke Neary.
A corner from Moshood in the 28th minute set up the third Nigerian goal with Faridat Abdulwahab scoring from outside the New Zealand penalty area.
Nigeria scored their fourth goal early in the second half when Adegoke crossed for midfielder Taiwo Afolabi to head into the net.
Hannah Saxon turns and shoots to score New Zealand’s goal.
New Zealand finally got on the scoresheet on the hour mark when Hannah Saxon turned an Ela Jerez corner into the net.
Taiwo Afolabi (Nigeria) received the Player of the Match award.
The following are results of the other Day 1 matches.
Group A
Dominican Republic 0-2 Ecuador
Group B
Spain 3-1 USA
South Korea 1-1 Colombia.
