Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, the Flamingos, revived their campaign at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco with a 2-0 victory over Puerto Rico in their Group B encounter in Rabat on Tuesday night.
The 2022 bronze medallists started brightly, pressing high and creating early problems for the Puerto Rican defence before taking control with their quick movement and attacking play.
Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 25th minute when striker Oluwakemi Adegbuyi finished Queen Joseph’s assist to put the Flamingos ahead.
The goal boosted the Nigerian side’s confidence, allowing them to dominate possession for much of the first half.
After the break, the Flamingos continued searching for a second goal, with Queen Joseph, Tosin Rafiu and Favour Nkwocha all coming close.
Puerto Rico also made changes in an attempt to recover, prompting Nigeria coach Hakeem Busari to introduce Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku in the 67th minute to add energy to the attack.
Nigeria eventually doubled their lead in the 90th minute when substitute Precious Oscar headed home a cross from Kemi Adegbuyi.
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The Flamingos then held firm through six minutes of added time to secure all three points and strengthen their position in Group B.
The victory came after North Korea defeated Poland 6-1 in the group’s other match, setting up an important encounter between Nigeria and the Koreans on Friday.
The Flamingos will now look to build on their win over Puerto Rico as they prepare for the crucial Group B fixture against North Korea.
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