By Nicholas Walter
Flamingos defeat Dominican Republic, to play US in quarterfinals.In Santo Domingo during the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, Nigeria’s Flamingos secured a victory over the Dominican Republic with a goal in the 89th minute.
Midfielder Shakirat Moshood gathered the ball from 25 yards and fired a strong shot with her left foot towards the goal, beating the Dominican goalkeeper for her fourth goal of the tournament.Before the game was 15 minutes in, the Video Assistant Referee ruled Moshood’s attempt offside, then team captain Taiwo Afolabi’s shot forced the Dominican goalkeeper to make a save.
Following the break, the Flamingos continued to put pressure on their adversaries until Moshood scored.The Flamingo’s third straight victory has placed them at the top of Group A, ahead of Ecuador, Dominican Republic, and New Zealand. Their victory in the last game of their group stage has enabled them to accumulate a total of nine points.The Flamingos have been in scorching hot form in the South American country, winning their initial two matches, scoring eight goals, and only allowing one goal.
Coach Bankole Olowokoore’s team started the tournament with a convincing 4-1 victory against New Zealand in Group A at Cibao Stadium in Santiago de los Caballeros and continued their winning streak with a 4-0 win over Ecuador. Olowokoore had faith in his team’s ability to represent Nigeria well in the tournament, thanking Nigerians for their support. They need to continue backing us and by maintaining these vigils, their efforts will not be wasted. Whenever they observe us, we will bring them happiness and we will succeed in making them feel proud. This is a commitment we made to them in Nigeria before we departed, and we are now honoring that commitment so they can be proud of us.As stated by the FIFA U-17 WWC Twitter account, the Nigerian match had the highest attendance of any Dominican Republic National Team game, with a record-breaking 13,535 fans.
The Flamingos will meet their American counterpart in the quarterfinal match of the tournament.
