Nigeria’s Falconets suffered a heartbreaking 0-1 defeat to Colombia after conceding in the final minutes of their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup quarter-final on Sunday.
The game appeared destined for extra time after both sides failed to break the deadlock during the regulation 90 minutes, but Colombia struck in the second minute of stoppage time to secure a dramatic victory.
Valerin Loboa scored the decisive goal in the 92nd minute, firing Colombia ahead after Nigeria had battled to keep their opponents at bay for most of the contest.
The Falconets’ best effort came when Tumininu Adeshina stepped forward from the back and unleashed a powerful long-range left-foot shot that was heading for the net before Louisa Agudelo tipped it over.
The first half had ended goalless, with Nigeria registering several attempts while Colombia also created opportunities, including efforts from Loboa and Isabella Diaz.
The Falconets had opportunities of their own, particularly in the second half, with Favour Nkwocha, Kafayat Mafisere, Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei and Onyedikachi Ekezie all attempting to find the breakthrough.
Nigeria were, however, reduced to 10 players in the 77th minute when Kafayat Mafisere was sent off, with VAR subsequently confirming the red card.
The Falconets made several changes in an attempt to respond, bringing on Winner Onajite David, Precious Oscar and Victory Lucky at different stages of the second half.
Despite being a player down, Nigeria continued to push forward and created further opportunities late in the game. Akekoromowei had an attempt in the seventh minute of added time, but Nigeria could not find an equaliser before the final whistle.
Colombia also threatened throughout the encounter, with Loboa among the players who tested the Nigerian defence. Her late strike ultimately settled a closely contested quarter-final.
Colombia will take on either DPR Korea or Canada for a place in the semi-final.
