A dramatic 89th-minute goal secured a crucial victory for Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, as they triumphed over host nation Dominican Republic early Wednesday in Santo Domingo during the ongoing 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Midfielder Shakirat Moshood delivered the decisive blow with a stunning left-footed strike from 25 yards, her powerful shot sailing past the Dominican goalkeeper to register her fourth goal of the tournament. The late goal was a moment of redemption for Moshood, who had seen an earlier attempt disallowed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for offside just 15 minutes into the game. Team captain Taiwo Afolabi also came close to scoring, forcing the Dominican goalkeeper into a critical save before halftime.
Following the break, the Flamingos intensified their pressure on the hosts, eventually breaking through when Moshood found the back of the net. This victory marked the Flamingos’ third consecutive win, allowing them to top Group A with a perfect nine points. They finished ahead of Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, and New Zealand, securing their place in the next stage of the tournament.
