FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup: Falconets Qualify for Quarter-Finals

Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, have booked their place in the quarter-finals of the ongoing FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, where they will lock horns with New Zealand, after coming from behind to defeat England 2-1 on Wednesday. Nigeria went into their last group game at the summit of Group C with four points after drawing with Mexico in their opening game and beating Korea Republic in the penultimate game. England drew first blood, as Nikita Parris’ shot from a distance flew past Nigerian keeper Ibijoke Sangonuga to give the Three Lions the lead in the 5^th minute. Loveth Ayila drew Nigeria to level four minutes before half-time, with a tremendous shot from 25-yards out which left the English keeper with no chance. In the second half, England were afforded an opportunity to restore their lead from the penalty spot after Sangonuga tripped Parris. However, Bethany Mead couldn’t convert her spot-kick. Minutes later, Nigeria were awarded a penalty of their own in the 59^th minute after Asisat Oshoala’s impressive run was halted in the England box. Oshoala dusted herself off and struck the ball into the net to give Nigeria a 2-1 lead. The win sends England packing whilst Nigeria will face New Zealand in the quarter-finals on Sunday.