Nigeria’s Falconets produced a stunning response at the U-20 Women’s World Cup with a massive 10-1 win.
The victory came against New Caledonia in their final Group F game in Poland on Sunday.
It was enough to send Nigeria into the Round of 16 after a difficult start to the tournament.
Winner Onajite David stole the spotlight with a hat-trick for the Falconets.
Ramotalahi Kareem, Rebecca Adegbeimile and Tosin Rafiu also found the net during Nigeria’s big win.
Most of the goals arrived after the break as the Falconets turned up the pressure.
The result lifted Nigeria to four points from three matches and secured second place in Group F.
Nigeria had earlier lost 2-0 to Spain before playing a goalless draw against China.
The huge win also gave the team a major boost in goal difference ahead of the knockout stage.
Head coach Moses Aduku used his substitutes to maintain Nigeria’s attacking energy throughout the second half.
New Caledonia scored a late consolation goal, but David completed her hat-trick in stoppage time.
The Falconets Round of 16 journey now continues against England, who won Group E.
NFF Acting General Secretary Emmanuel Ikpeme praised the team after their impressive performance.
“The Presidency through the National Sports Commission, the NFF and Nigerian Football stakeholders, and I believe all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, are very proud of the outing of the Falconets against New Caledonia. They showed the true Nigeria spirit and overcame the odds when it mattered most.
“The result has taken them to the Round of 16, and we believe the team can only get better. I charge them to sustain the win-mentality and go all the way.”
The Falconets Round of 16 clash against England is scheduled for Thursday.
