Flamingos out of World Cup after loss to Italy

Flamingos out of World Cup after loss to Italy

Nigeria’s Flamingos have been eliminated from the ongoing FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco following a 4-0 loss to Italy in the Round of 16 on Tuesday.

The 2022 bronze medallists came into the match with high hopes of progressing further in the tournament but were undone by a clinical Italian side that maintained a perfect record with four wins in as many games.

Nigeria had a bright start and nearly took the lead in the 24th minute when team captain Shakirat Moshood unleashed a powerful shot from the left side of the penalty box, only for Italian goalkeeper Matilde Robbioni to push it wide.

Italy broke the deadlock just before halftime through Anna Copelli, who weaved past the Nigerian defence before calmly slotting past goalkeeper Sylvia Echefu.

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Ten minutes into the second half, Nigeria thought they had equalised through Nguemo Terlumun after a spirited effort by Queen Joseph. However, the Video Support Review ruled that Joseph had kicked the ball out of Robbioni’s hands, disallowing the goal.

Italy doubled their lead three minutes later with a stunning long-range effort from Caterina Venturelli, which sailed over Echefu and into the net. Giulia Robino added a third five minutes later, and in the 89th minute, Rachelle Giudici sealed the win with a fourth goal, confirmed by VAR to be onside.

The defeat ends Nigeria’s campaign in the tournament, but attention now shifts to preparations for the qualifying series for the next edition of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, which will now be held annually.

Flamingos out of World Cup after loss to Italy