Brave Falconets Exit FIFA U20 World Cup After Narrow Defeat to Japan

Nigeria’s Falconets bowed out of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia after a hard-fought 2-1 defeat to reigning vice champions Japan in the Round of 16. Despite a late goal from Olushola Shobowale, it wasn’t enough to overcome Japan’s earlier dominance on Friday morning at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo, Bogota.

Japan took control with a goal in each half—Miyu Matsunaga opening the scoring in the 33rd minute and Maya Hijikata doubling the lead in the 66th minute. Nigeria’s valiant effort to match Japan’s electric pace and clever play paid off with a last-minute goal, but it was too late to turn the tide.

The Falconets.

Japan will now advance to the quarterfinals to face Spain in a re-match of the previous tournament’s final, while Nigeria’s Falconets leave the tournament with heads held high after a commendable campaign.

Written by Boom RadioNG