Falconets went 2-0 down to the Netherlands in the 33rd minute after Ziva Henry capitalised on an unfortunate mistake from the Nigerian defence
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigeria’s Falconets crashed out of the U-20 Women’s World Cup losing 2-0 to The Netherlands in the quarter-finals of the competition.
The Nigerian ladies had raised hopes with their exhilarating displays in the group stage, winning three of their group games, including an opening-day shocker against France.
They were, however, pegged back early in the last 8 match, as an eighth-minute goal from Zera Hilswit gave the Dutch ladies the lead.
Falconets then dominated the game, hitting the crossbar but could not manage to convert the numerous chances that came begging.
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Unfortunately, Ziva Henry capitalised on a mistake from the Nigerian defense and scored for the Netherlands in the 33rd minute to make it 2-0.
Nigeria played the entire second period in the half of the Europeans, but for some strange reason, kept taking long-range shots, which didn’t yield the desired outcome.
Even the glimmer of hope that came deep in stoppage time in form of a penalty was overturned after a VAR review to sum up Nigeria’s night.
The lucky Dutch side who were second best in every aspect will match on to face Spain in the semi-final.
