Nigeria’s Falconets delivered a commanding performance, defeating England 3-0 in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland to secure their place in the quarter-finals, Trybal News reports.
Tosin Rafiu gave Nigeria an early lead in the seventh minute before Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei doubled the advantage just two minutes after the restart. Mary Mamadu completed the scoring in the 73rd minute to seal a memorable victory for Moses Aduku’s side.
Captain Christiana Uzoma played a crucial role in the win, saving Rachel Maltby’s first-half penalty to preserve Nigeria’s lead and prevent England from gaining momentum.
The victory also created a piece of history, with Nigeria’s 3-0 triumph representing the largest winning margin in a World Cup meeting between the two nations across the senior men’s, senior women’s and U20 women’s teams.
The Falconets had reached the knockout stage after finishing second in Group F with four points. They opened their campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Spain and a goalless draw against China before recording a resounding 10-1 victory over New Caledonia.
England, who also finished second in their group, were unable to withstand Nigeria’s attacking pressure and defensive resilience.
The Falconets, two-time runners-up in the competition, will now turn their attention to the quarter-finals as they continue their pursuit of a historic FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup title.
