Janet Akekoromowei was named Player of the Match following her impressive performance in Nigeria’s 3-0 victory over England in their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup round of 16 clash.
The 18-year-old forward proved a constant threat to the Young Lionesses’ defence, scoring Nigeria’s second goal and providing the assist for the third as the Falconets secured their place in the quarter-finals.
The individual award marks another milestone for the newly signed Benfica youngster, who initially missed the start of the competition due to documentation issues surrounding her continued stay in Portugal.
Since joining up with the squad ahead of their second group-stage game against China, Akekoromowei has scored two goals in three appearances, showcasing her quality and threat in front of goal.
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She produced another display of that quality against England, with the forward making her mark just minutes into the second half after Tosin Rafiu had given Nigeria a first-half lead.
Akekoromowei smashed the ball into the net in the 47th minute to double the Falconets’ advantage and give Moses Aduku’s side a more comfortable cushion.
She then turned provider in the 72nd minute, winning the ball from an England throw-in before squaring for Mary Mamudu, who finished into an empty net to make it 3-0 and seal Nigeria’s place in the quarter-finals.
Akekoromowei will now look to continue her impressive form when Nigeria face either hosts Poland or Colombia in the final eight on Sunday, September 20.
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