Nigeria’s under-20 female national team is through to the fourth and final round of the FIFA U20 Women World Cup qualifiers after beating Tanzania 3-2 on aggregate.
The Falconets forced the Tanzanians to a 1-1 draw in Dar es Salaam last week and secured a 2-1 victory at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Sunday to take another step towards qualifying for Colombia 2024.
The Nigerian girls were the favourites for the win, and their early dominance paid off in the 15th minute when Janet Aikekoromowei pounced on an Opeyemi Ajakaye assist to hand the home side the lead.
But the Tanzanians were brave in their approach, and five minutes later, Jamila Rajani Mnunduka levelled for the visitors from a goalmouth scramble.
The goal took little away from the Falconets’ confidence, though, and Ajakaye thought she had her team back in front in the 25th minute after hitting the net but her effort was ruled out for offside.
The first half ended with the two sides on levelled terms, but Nigeria edged back in front on the hour mark. Comfort Folorunsho got the Falconets back ahead when she met Shobowale Olushola’s cross with a firm header.
Nigeria had more chances to extend their lead, but Ajakaye and Chiamaka Okwuchukwu missed from close ranges.
However, Nigeria held on for the win and will face Burundi in the last round, with the winner of that clash securing a spot at Colombia 2024.
This post was last modified on November 19, 2023 6:33 pm