Falconets 1-0 Korea: Flourish Sabastine gives Nigeria winning start to FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup

 

The Falconets of Nigeria defeated Korea Republic 1–0 thanks to a spectacular late goal by Flourish Sabastine in Bogota, which also put the Falconets in a strong position to advance to the Round of 16 in the 11th FIFA U20 Women's World Cup.

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In a match between two formidable teams that knew each other well, opportunities were few and far between.

Falconets 1-0 Korea

However, Nigeria had the better of the chances, especially in the second half that was played at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo.

A late goal by Flourish Sabastine gives the Falconets of Nigeria a 1-0 win against Korea Republic to start the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

A late goal by Flourish Sabastine gives the Falconets of Nigeria a 1-0 win against Korea Republic to start the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

Forward Mary Lucky Mkpa was a determined individual who, with some accuracy, ought to have converted at least two of the opportunities to the Falconets

On the quarter-hour mark, the Asians—who had lost to Nigeria in a group phase match in the previous competition in Costa Rica by a single goal—nearly took the lead, but Shukurat Oladipowas able to make a crucial stop.

A late goal by Flourish Sabastine gives the Falconets of Nigeria a 1-0 win against Korea Republic to start the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

A late goal by Flourish Sabastine gives the Falconets of Nigeria a 1-0 win against Korea Republic to start the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

In the 28th minute, Nigerian goalkeeper Shukurat Bakare failed to save a pull-out attempt, allowing the Koreans to create a chance to score.

Just before the break, Myeyung's 22-yard free kick that shook the crossbar spared Nigeria's blushes.

Amina Bello and Sabastine had their attempts in the opposition box denied in the second half.