Nigeria’s Flamingos kicked off their 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign with an emphatic 4-1 win over New Zealand in Santiago de los Caballeros.
Shakirat Moshood opened the scoring in spectacular fashion, finding the back of the net within 90 seconds, marking one of the fastest goals in the tournament’s history.
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The Flamingos continued their relentless attack, doubling their lead in the 13th minute through defender Taiwo Adegoke, whose powerful shot from outside the box was initially mishandled by the New Zealand goalkeeper. 
After consultation with the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), it was confirmed that the ball had crossed the line, giving Nigeria a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Faridat Abdulwahab added a stunning third goal in the 28th minute, lifting the ball over the opposition goalkeeper from 16 yards out.
The Nigerian side was firing on all cylinders, with Peace Effiong and Harmony Chidi making several dangerous attempts, keeping the New Zealand defense under immense pressure.
At half time, it was New Zealand 0 – 3 Nigeria.
In the second half, captain Taiwo Afolabi extended Nigeria’s lead with a well-timed header from Adegoke’s cross, making it 4-0.
New Zealand managed to pull one back in the 60th minute, with Hannah Saxon scoring after a clever set-piece, but the Flamingos remained dominant throughout.
Despite Chidi being denied by the New Zealand goalkeeper in the 75th minute, Nigeria’s defense stood firm, and the Flamingos comfortably saw out the match.
With this victory, Nigeria has set themselves up for a strong run in the tournament and will look to secure another three points in their upcoming match against Ecuador on Saturday.
A win there could secure their place in the knockout stage of the competition.
Goal Scorers
– Shakirat Moshood 2′ (1-0)
– Taiwo Adegoke 13′ (2-0)
– Faridat Abdulwahab 28′ (3-0)
– Taiwo Afolabi 55′ (4-0)
– Hannah Saxon 60′ (4-1)
The Flamingos will now focus on their next fixture, aiming to build on this impressive opening performance.
