Nigeria’s Falconets have been eliminated from the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in their quarter-final clash at the Stadion Miejski ŁKS in Łódź on Sunday.
Moses Aduku’s side produced a resilient display despite being reduced to ten players in the 76th minute. However, Colombia capitalised on their numerical advantage to secure a late victory, with Valerin Loboa scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time.
The Falconets dominated proceedings in the first half and came close to breaking the deadlock in the 19th minute when Janet Akekoromowei’s long-range effort was saved onto the crossbar.
Nigeria threatened again shortly before half-time, with Tumininu Adeshina forcing Luisa Agudelo into a save as both sides went into the break level.
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Colombia began the second half with more attacking intent and had an opportunity to take the lead few minutes after the restart. However, like Nigeria, the South Americans were unable to convert their chance.
The Falconets were reduced to ten players in the 78th minute, handing Colombia a numerical advantage. Kafayat Mafisere was shown a red card for a dangerous challenge while attempting to win the ball, with VAR confirming the decision.
Colombia subsequently increased the pressure in search of a late winner, but Nigeria remained resolute and appeared set to force the game into extra time.
However, the South Americans finally broke the deadlock in the 92nd minute when Loboa found the back of the net to seal a 1-0 victory for Colombia.
The defeat brings Nigeria’s campaign to an end, while Colombia advance to the semi-finals of the tournament for the first time since 2010. The South Americans will face either North Korea or Canada in the last four.
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