In a tightly contested Round of 16 match at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, Japan edged out Nigeria 2-1, ending the Falconets’ campaign.
Japan, the reigning vice champions, took the lead with a goal from Miyu Matsunaga in the 33rd minute, followed by a second goal from Maya Hijikata in the 66th minute. Despite a late goal from Nigeria’s Olushola Shobowale in injury time, it was not enough to overturn the deficit.
The match, held at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota, saw Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Faith Omilana, make several crucial saves to keep the team in contention. However, Japan’s attacking prowess proved too much, with their pace and skill proving decisive.
Japan will now advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face Spain in a rematch of the final from the previous U20 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica.
News Editor