Nigeria’s Falconets produced a stunning response at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland, thrashing New Caledonia 10-1 to secure a place in the Round of 16.
Entering Sunday’s final Group F fixture under immense pressure with just one point from their opening two matches, the Nigerian side needed a commanding victory to keep their tournament hopes alive.
They delivered in emphatic fashion, ruthlessly overwhelming the tournament debutants to secure all three points and dramatically improve their goal difference.
Spain finished top of the group after defeating China 3-1. Spain, Nigeria and China all advanced to the knockout stage, while New Caledonia bowed out after suffering three consecutive defeats.
After a sluggish start that saw the Falconets lose 2-0 to Spain and draw 0-0 with China, Nigeria rediscovered their clinical attacking edge when it mattered most.
The emphatic victory not only revived the team’s campaign but also sent a strong message ahead of the knockout stage.
Nigeria will now await the conclusion of Group E fixtures to learn their Round of 16 opponent.
