Janet Akekoromowei and Ramotalahi Kareem were again among the goals as Nigeria’s Falconets routed their Ghanaian counterparts 3-0 on Tuesday morning, to emerge champions of the WAFU B U20 Girls Tournament in Bénin Republic.

The Princesses, 1-3 losers to the two-time FIFA World Cup silver-medallists when both teams clashed at the same Stade Omnisport d’Adjohoun on Saturday, were unable to stop the rampaging Nigerians who were 2-0 up before the 25^th minute, courtesy goals by Akekoromowei (17^th minute) and Alaba Olabiyi (24^th minute). Akekoromowie netted twice against the Ghanaians on Saturday while Kareem got a brace against the Beninoise on Sunday.

Victory sprang the Falconets to nine points and plus eight goals difference (they have scored thrice in each of their three games) to claim the trophy in the three-team tournament, with Ghana’s Princesses on six points after victories over the host nation.

The Falconets will be up against the host nation on Wednesday morning at the same venue, but the encounter is largely ceremonial as Nigeria have claimed the trophy.

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Nigeria’s hopes of another podium finish at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup came to a crashing halt on Wednesday as the Flamingos suffered a 4–0 defeat to a ruthless Italy in their Round of 16 clash.

The result ends the 2022 bronze medallists’ journey in Morocco, drawing the curtain on what had been a turbulent campaign marked by flashes of promise but undermined by inconsistency.

Nigeria’s Early Promise Falters

Determined to prove their mettle after a shaky group stage, the Flamingos started brightly and could have taken the lead in the 24th minute. Captain Shakirat Moshood unleashed a powerful drive from the left edge of the penalty area, only to see her effort acrobatically turned away by Italian goalkeeper Matilde Robbioni.

Moments before the interval, Italy struck the first blow. Anna Copelli wove her way through Nigeria’s defence before calmly slotting past Sylvia Echefu to give the Europeans a 1–0 lead at halftime.

VAR Drama and Italian Ruthlessness

Nigeria believed they had drawn level ten minutes into the second half when Nguemo Terlumun bundled home after a tenacious effort from Queen Joseph. However, the Video Support Review (VSR) disallowed the goal, ruling that Joseph had kicked the ball out of the goalkeeper’s hands.

The setback proved costly. Three minutes later, Caterina Venturelli doubled Italy’s lead with a spectacular long-range strike that sailed over Echefu and nestled in the top corner.

The floodgates opened soon after. Giulia Robino made it 3–0 five minutes later, and in the 89th minute, a final VSR review confirmed Rachelle Giudici’s late effort as legitimate, completing a dominant 4–0 victory for the Italians.

Flamingos Bow Out, Eyes on the Future

With the defeat, Nigeria’s campaign ends in disappointment, while Italy march into the quarterfinals boasting a perfect record of four wins from four matches.

For the Flamingos, attention must now turn to the qualifying series for the next edition of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup — now set to be held annually — as they look to rebuild and return stronger.

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Nigeria’s Flamingos face one of their sternest challenges yet as they take on in-form Italy in the quarter-finals of the ongoing FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup this Tuesday.

Italy have been one of the standout teams of the tournament, topping Group A ahead of Brazil, Morocco, and hosts Costa Rica.

In contrast, Nigeria had a stuttering start but eventually came alive with a commanding 4–0 win over Samoa to secure a place among the best third-placed teams.

While the Italians head into the tie full of confidence, the Flamingos know that knockout football often writes its own script.
At this stage, past form counts for little — every match becomes a fresh battle. Whether you finished top of your group or sneaked through as one of the best third-placed teams, the knockout rounds are known to spring surprises.

Italy’s technical precision, swift attacking transitions, and clinical finishing have been their biggest strengths. For Nigeria, their resilience and raw flair have kept them in contention, though consistency remains a concern.

Players to Watch

Giulia Galli (Italy)

The name on everyone’s lips. With five goals so far, Galli is the tournament’s leading scorer and a genuine attacking threat. Her composure in front of goal and movement off the ball have been key to Italy’s dominance.

“Having eyes on you from all over the world makes you feel even more charged up than you would normally be,” Galli told FIFA after her brace against Costa Rica.

If Nigeria’s defenders allow her space, she could once again prove decisive.

Queen Joseph (Nigeria)

The Flamingos’ talisman and top scorer with three goals, Queen Joseph has shown both flair and purpose. Her dazzling footwork and ability to pierce opposition lines make her Nigeria’s most potent weapon.

The Fosla Academy forward has combined technical brilliance with leadership, inspiring her teammates when it matters most.
Italy will have to be cautious whenever she is found by her creative midfield partners.

Tactics and Mental Edge

Italy are likely to stick with their high-pressing, ball-possession strategy, seeking to dominate the midfield and isolate Nigeria’s defenders. Nigeria, on the other hand, might rely on quick counter-attacks, using their pace and individual flair to exploit spaces behind the Italian backline.

The Flamingos’ ability to stay compact defensively and convert chances efficiently will determine whether they can extend their stay in the competition.

A win for Nigeria would mark their second successive semi-final appearance at the U-17 Women’s World Cup and further underline the nation’s growing reputation in women’s youth football.

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