- The U-20 Super Falconets began their tournament with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea
- Alara Sehitler struck early for Germany, netting the opening goal in the 17th minute
- The Falconets now face a must-win scenario against Venezuela to keep their hopes alive
Coming off an impressive 1-0 win against South Korea in their opening fixture at Estadio El Techo, the Super Falconets seemed ready to take on the world.
Coach Christopher Danjuma’s side played with great determination, matching their opponents tactically and securing three valuable points.
But next up was Germany, a team historically a tough opponent for Nigeria in the U-20 Women’s World Cup.
It didn't take long for Germany to display their skillfulness on the ball, with Alara Sehitler finding the back of the net in the 17th minute after exploiting a gap in Nigeria's defence. Despite being under pressure, the Falconets weren’t completely outplayed.
They created their fair share of chances but couldn't find an equalizer before the halftime whistle.
The Falconets came out stronger in the second half, and their efforts paid off in the 51st minute when Chiamaka Okwuchukwu finished a well-executed team move to bring Nigeria back on level terms.
It seemed like the momentum was shifting, but Germany quickly struck back. Just ten minutes after Nigeria's goal, Sofie Zdebel restored the lead for Germany with a composed finish that left the Nigerian defence scrambling once again.
Desperate to equalise, Nigeria pressed hard, but their efforts were in vain as Sarah Ernst added a third goal for Germany in stoppage time, securing a 3-1 win for the Europeans.
With three points from two matches, they sit second in their group behind Germany, who now top the table with six points.
Nigeria’s Falconets decide fate against Venezuela
To keep their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages alive, the Falconets must win their final group game against Venezuela.
Fortunately, Nigeria’s fate is still in their hands. A win against Venezuela, who were thrashed 5-2 by Germany in their opening game, would see Nigeria advance to the Round of 16.
With their attacking strength, Christopher Danjuma’s side remains hopeful of securing the important victory needed to progress.
The Falconets will now regroup and prepare for their final group-stage clash, knowing that everything is still to play for.
Paris Olympic 2024: Super Falcons defender Ebi discusses being left out of squad
Previously, TheRadar reported that Nigeria’s Olympic journey, though filled with many ups and downs and a rollercoaster of emotions for athletes and fans, has not failed to thrill netizens with different episodes of ‘drama.’
One of the most talked-about stories involves Super Falcons defender Onome Ebi, who recently took to social media to address her exclusion from Nigeria’s Paris 2024 Olympic squad.
