Nigeria’s Falconets were knocked out of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after Colombia scored in stoppage time to claim a 1-0 victory in their quarter-final on Sunday.
The match appeared to be heading for extra time after neither side could find a breakthrough during the opening 90 minutes. However, Colombia struck in the second minute of added time to settle a tightly contested encounter.
Valerin Loboa proved to be the difference, firing home in the 92nd minute to send Colombia into the semi-finals.
Nigeria had worked hard to contain their opponents throughout the match and created several opportunities of their own.
One of the Falconets’ best chances came when defender Tumininu Adeshina advanced into an attacking position before unleashing a powerful left-footed effort from distance. Colombia goalkeeper Louisa Agudelo reacted quickly to tip the shot over the crossbar.
The first half ended goalless, with both teams producing chances. Loboa and Isabella Diaz threatened for Colombia, while Nigeria also tested the Colombian defence without finding the decisive finish.
The Falconets increased the pressure after the interval, with Favour Nkwocha, Kafayat Mafisere, Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei and Onyedikachi Ekezie all attempting to break the deadlock.
Nigeria’s task became more difficult in the 77th minute when Mafisere was sent off. The referee’s decision was subsequently upheld following a VAR review, leaving the Falconets to finish the match with 10 players.
Nigeria made a series of substitutions as they sought to change the course of the game, with Winner Onajite David, Precious Oscar and Victory Lucky introduced during the second half.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Falconets continued to push for a winner and created further openings in the closing stages. Akekoromowei had another opportunity in the seventh minute of added time, but Nigeria were unable to convert.
Colombia continued to pose a threat at the other end, with Loboa among those testing the Nigerian defence before ultimately delivering the decisive blow.
The result ended the Falconets’ campaign at the quarter-final stage, while Colombia advanced to the semi-finals, where they will face either DPR Korea or Canada.
