The Falconets of Nigeria have been eliminated from the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup following a 2-1 round of 16 defeat to Japan in Bogota, Colombia in the early hours of Friday.
Japan, runners-up of the last edition of the tournament, scored once in each half while the Falconets got a late consolation goal in stoppage time.
The Asians put their noses in front in the 33rd minute through Miyu Matsunaga, who
headed home a cross by Rihona Ujihara.
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After near misses by both sides, Japan doubled their lead in the 66th minute, Maya Hijikata sweeping the ball into the Nigeria net from another cross, this time delivered by Chinari Sasai.
It could have been worse for the Falconets, but goalkeeper Faith Omilana made two fine saves to keep her side’s faint hopes alive.
Nigeria did get on the scoresheet but it was too late when Olushola Shobowale netted one minute into added time.
Two-time runners-up Nigeria are on their way back home as Japan booked a quarter-final clash with Spain, a rematch of the final of the last edition in Costa Rica two years ago.
