Nigeria’s under-20 women’s football team, the Falconets, lost 1-3 to Germany in their second Group D match of the 2024 FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia on Thursday. The match took place at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogotá.
The Nigerian squad struggled to keep pace with the dominant German team throughout the game.
With this win, Germany topped the group with six points from two matches, while Nigeria held second place with three points, thanks to their victory over South Korea in their opening game.
Germany took the lead in the 17th minute when Sehitler Alara capitalised on Nigeria’s defensive lapse. Despite a shaky first half, the Falconets came out more assertively after the break, equalising in the 50th minute through Chiamaka Okwuchukwu.
However, Germany quickly regained the lead when Sofie Zdebel scored with a clinical finish in the 61st minute. The Falconets also had a goal ruled out by the Video Assistant Referee.
Nigeria continued to push for an equaliser, but their efforts were thwarted when Sarah Ernst netted Germany’s third goal, sealing the victory for the three-time champions.
Germany’s perfect record stands with two wins from two matches, while Nigeria now faces a tougher road to the Round of 16. The Falconets will need a strong performance in their final group match against Venezuela on Saturday to advance.
The result of the Korea Republic versus Venezuela game will be crucial in determining Nigeria’s path forward.