FLAMINGOS CRASH OUT OF FIFA U-17 WOMEN’S WORLD CUP AFTER 4-0 LOSS TO ITALY
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The Nigeria U-17 women’s football team, the Flamingos, have been eliminated from the ongoing 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after suffering a 4-0 defeat to Italy in their Round of 16 clash on Saturday at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Rabat, Morocco.
Despite entering the knockout stage with confidence following a strong group-stage performance, the Flamingos were unable to withstand the clinical finishing and tactical dominance of the Italians.
Italy took the lead just before halftime through Anna Copelli, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past Nigerian goalkeeper Sylvia Echefu. The Italians doubled their advantage early in the second half with a long-range strike from Caterina Venturelli, before Giulia Robino made it 3-0.
Rachele Giudici added a fourth goal in the 89th minute to complete the rout and confirm Nigeria’s exit from the competition. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) was involved in two of the goals, further compounding the frustration of the Nigerian side.
The defeat ends Nigeria’s campaign prematurely, a disappointing outcome for the team that had high hopes after winning bronze at the last edition of the tournament in 2022.
Coach Bankole Olowokere is expected to return to the drawing board with his technical crew as the team begins preparations for the next qualification cycle.
Despite the setback, the Flamingos’ participation in the tournament is seen as a valuable experience that will contribute to the growth and development of women’s football in Nigeria.
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