Germany triumphed over Nigeria’s Falconets with a 3-1 victory in their second group stage match of the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
The result at the Estadio El Techo in Bogotá, Colombia, sends Germany to the top of their group with two wins from two games, while Nigeria remains with three points from their opening match victory over South Korea.
Germany took control early in the game, opening the scoring in the 17th minute through Sehitler A. The Falconets, determined to fight back, responded strongly in the second half, and their efforts paid off when Okwuchukwu C. netted the equalizer in the 50th minute.
However, Germany’s relentless pressure soon restored their lead. Zdebel S. scored in the 61st minute, and the Germans sealed their victory deep into stoppage time, with Ernst S. adding the final goal to make it 3-1.
The Falconets came into the match looking to build on their momentum after a narrow 1-0 win over South Korea in their opening game. Flourish Sabastine’s late strike had given Nigeria a valuable three points in that match, but they were unable to overcome the German challenge.
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Germany, three-time champions of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, showed their pedigree throughout the contest. They dominated possession and created multiple chances, with their experience shining through in key moments. The victory reinforces their strong start to the tournament, having also secured a 5-2 win over Venezuela in their first match.
Nigeria will now look to bounce back in their final group match as they seek qualification for the Round of 16. However, they face an uphill battle, as Germany’s dominance in group stages and previous meetings with the Falconets— including two finals defeats in 2010 and 2014 — underline the challenge ahead.
Nigeria will need to regroup quickly and deliver a strong performance in their next match to keep their World Cup hopes alive.