The Nigerian women’s U17 national failed to qualify for the final of the World Cup as they were beaten 6-5 on penalties by Colombia.
The Flamingos were second best in all departments of the game as their South American counterparts dominated the entire proceedings in the match.
The Africans had to defend in most parts of the game as they survived the pressure thrown at them in all areas of the pitch.
Colombia’s nine goal attempts with five on target to Nigeria’s five with none on sight of the post were the talking points of the first 45 minutes.
The second half was even worse for Nigeria as they were desperate to keep the scoreline at 0-0 apiece until the final whistle.
During penalties, Colombia converted their first-two spot-kicks as Nigeria scored all three to put themselves in advantage with goals from Offiong, Etum and Usani.
A spot at the finals were just two shootouts away as Espitaleta and Afolabi scored their fourth penalties.
But Edafe spurned the last kick for West African side when her effort hit the bar, to save the game for Colombia.
In the sudden death, Ortegon and Oyinlola were both successful with their respective spot-kicks and Hernandez made it 6-5 before Agudelo saved Folorunsho’s penalty to secure their passage into the finals.
Colombia deservedly played got the win as Nigeria will have to settle for a third place playoffs.
