Nigeria’s Falconets delivered a commanding performance against Venezuela, securing a resounding 4-0 victory at the Estadio Olímpico Pascual Guerrero on Saturday night. The win ensured Nigeria's progression to the Round of 16 in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
Chiamaka Okwuchukwu was the standout player, making a significant impact by scoring one goal and providing two crucial assists. Her efforts were instrumental in Nigeria's dominant display, which also saw goals from Amina Bello, Flourish Sabastine, and a spectacular late strike from Joy Igbokwe.
The match began with a flourish as Okwuchukwu’s incisive play created an early opportunity for Amina Bello. Bello made no mistake, finishing off a sharp cut-back from Okwuchukwu in the 16th minute to give Nigeria the lead. Okwuchukwu continued to shine, doubling the advantage in the 28th minute. She met a cleverly executed short corner with a powerful header that left Venezuelan goalkeeper Tibayre Rodriguez with no chance.
Despite Venezuela’s attempts to rally, including a couple of sharp saves from Falconets' goalkeeper Faith Omilana, Nigeria struck again just before halftime. Okwuchukwu’s precise delivery set up Flourish Sabastine, who calmly slotted the ball past Rodriguez in the 45+5 minute to make it 3-0 at the break.
The second half saw Nigeria maintain control, with the tempo slowing but the dominance unwavering. Venezuela’s captain Gabriela Angulo managed a goal-line clearance to deny Chioma Olise a fourth goal. However, with the final whistle approaching, substitute Joy Igbokwe sealed the victory with a breathtaking long-range strike from 40 yards out that flew over Rodriguez and into the net.
The Falconets' victory, which brought their tally to six points in Group D, was a significant statement of intent as they head into the knockout stages. Despite finishing on level points with Germany, Nigeria's inferior head-to-head and goal difference saw them finish second in the group.
Nigeria now faces the top team from Group E, with potential opponents including Japan or Austria. The Round of 16 clash is scheduled for September 13 in Bogotá.
