By Oluchi Omai – BHG Life TV
Nigeria’s Flamingos began their U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign on a
disappointing note after suffering a heavy 4–1 defeat to Canada in their
opening Group D fixture on Sunday.
The match, held at the Football Academy Mohammed VI in Salé, Morocco, saw
the Canadians take an early lead just two minutes in through Gabriela Istocki.
Nigeria responded in the 30th minute when Queen Joseph equalised, bringing the
scoreline to 1–1 at halftime.
However, the second half turned into a nightmare for the Nigerians as
defensive lapses saw them concede three goals in just 13 minutes. Melisa Kekic
restored Canada’s lead in the 73rd minute, followed by a quick double from
Julia Amireh, who capitalised on a goalkeeping error to make it 3–1 before
sealing the win with a counterattack in the 86th minute.
The victory propelled Canada to the top of Group D with three points, while
Nigeria sits bottom with no points. The Flamingos will face France next on
Wednesday before taking on Samoa in their final group match.
Coach Bankole Olowookere’s side, who finished third in the 2022 edition, now
face an uphill task to keep their qualification hopes alive.
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