The Nigerian Falconets’ hopes of advancing in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup were dashed in rainy Bogota, Colombia, as they fell 2-1 to Japan. The 2018 champions dominated the match, taking the lead in the 33rd minute through Miyu Matsunaga’s unchecked header at the back post.
Nigeria’s Rofiat Imuran forced a impressive save from Japan’s keeper Akane Okuma, but the Asian powerhouse maintained their lead into halftime. Maya Hijikata doubled Japan’s advantage midway through the second half, putting her level with Brazil’s Vendito in the Adidas Golden Boot race.
Despite Olushola Shobowale’s stoppage-time goal for Nigeria, Japan held on for a 2-1 victory, setting up a thrilling quarter-final encounter with Spain, a rematch of the 2022 final. The Falconets’ elimination marks the end of their World Cup journey in Colombia.
