U-20 Women’s World Cup: Nigeria crash out after late Colombia goal

Nigeria’s Falconets crashed out of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after Colombia scored a late winner to secure a 1-0 victory in their quarter-final clash on Sunday.

The two-time runners-up appeared set to take the game into extra time before Valerin Loboa struck in the second minute of added time to send Colombia into the semi-finals.

Nigeria were reduced to 10 players in the 77th minute when Kafayat Mafisere was shown a straight red card, with the decision subsequently confirmed by the Video Assistant Referee.

The Falconets had created several opportunities before the dismissal, with Tosin Rafiu, Tumininu Adeshina, Favour Nkwocha, Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei and Onyedikachi Ekezie all attempting efforts on goal.

Colombia also threatened through Loboa and Isabella Diaz, but neither side could break the deadlock before half-time.

Despite playing with 10 players, Nigeria held Colombia until the 90th minute before Loboa found the decisive goal.

The defeat ends Nigeria’s hopes of reaching their first U-20 Women’s World Cup semi-final since 2010.

The Falconets had entered the quarter-final after a 3-0 victory over England in the Round of 16, while Colombia defeated hosts Poland 1-0 at the same stage.

Nigeria have reached the final of the competition twice but are yet to win the title.

Saheed is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over two years of experience covering metro, technology, sports, politics, and human-interest stories. He focuses on producing clear, engaging reports across diverse beats. Saheed’s work reflects hands-on newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate and balanced journalism.

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