In a thrilling first leg of the final qualifying round for the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup,
Nigeria’s Flamingos secured a commanding 4-1 victory over hosts Liberia at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Monrovia on Sunday.
The Flamingos, bronze medallists in the previous World Cup, wasted no time in asserting their dominance.
Despite a quick start, their initial goal in the 14th minute was ruled out by Chadian referee Lare Lamngar. Unfazed, the Nigerian team continued to press forward, with Shakirat Moshood breaking the deadlock in the 19th minute following an impressive solo run.
The momentum remained firmly with the Flamingos as Peace Effiong extended their lead in the 29th minute.
Effiong, known for her brace in the previous 6-0 rout of Burkina Faso, once again showcased her scoring prowess.
Harmony Chidi, a prolific scorer in the qualifiers with 10 previous goals, added another to her tally in the 36th minute, heading home to make it 3-0.
In the second half, Nigeria maintained their dominance. Substitute Blessing Ifitezue scored the fourth goal with 16 minutes remaining, cementing the Flamingos’ commanding position.
Liberia managed a consolation goal five minutes from the end when Yassah Gwaikolo converted a penalty after Onyedikachi Ekezie committed a foul in the area.
With this emphatic win, the Flamingos have one foot in the World Cup finals, set to be held in the Dominican Republic in 2024.
The team will return to Nigeria on Tuesday to begin preparations for the return leg, scheduled for Friday at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
