Flamingos soar into World Cup semi-finals after dramatic victory over Venezuela
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The Flamingos produced an impressive attacking performance, recording 19 shots against Venezuela’s six, while both sides enjoyed an equal share of possession at 50 per cent each.
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have secured a place in the semi-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Venezuela 1-0 in their quarter-final encounter on Sunday.
A late penalty converted by Aishat Oduntan in the 89th minute proved decisive, giving the Nigerian youngsters a hard-fought victory at the Mohammed VI Football Academy.
The encounter remained goalless at half-time, with both teams struggling to convert their attacking opportunities into goals.
The Flamingos eventually broke the deadlock in the closing stages when Oduntan stepped up to convert from the penalty spot, sending the Flamingos ahead with only minutes left to play.
Venezuela attempted to respond, but Nigeria held firm to protect their advantage until the final whistle.
The Flamingos produced an impressive attacking performance, recording 19 shots against Venezuela’s six, while both sides enjoyed an equal share of possession at 50 per cent each.
The victory marks another important step in Nigeria’s campaign as the Flamingos continue their quest for the U-17 women’s world title.
Their progression to the last four also keeps Nigeria’s hopes of securing a place in the tournament final alive.