2024 U20 Women’s World Cup: Sabastine’s strike seals victory for Falconets against South Korea

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Nigeria started her 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup campaign on a strong note after the Falconets recorded a 1-0 victory over South Korea.

Stade De Reims forward Flourish Sabastine netted a late winner to hand Nigeria all three points in their opening match.

In a tight match between both teams, opportunities were rare, but Nigeria created more chances. The second half at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo was particularly entertaining.

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Nigeria’s forward Mary Lucky Mkpa worked tirelessly and should have scored at least twice. Her precision was lacking, but her determination was evident throughout the encounter.

Korea came close to scoring first in the 15th minute, but Shukurat Oladipo’s crucial intervention saved the Falconets. She managed to disrupt a dangerous cross, preventing a clear shot on goal.

Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Shukurat Bakare, had a scare in the 28th minute, missing a cross entirely. Fortunately, Korea’s touch sent the ball over the crossbar, while Mkpa missed a chance at the other end.

Just before halftime, Myeyung nearly punished Nigeria with a 22-yard free-kick that rattled the crossbar. It was a close call that could have changed the game’s direction.

In the second half, Sabastine and Amina Bello saw their shots blocked, keeping the game tight. Substitute Chiamaka Okwuchukwu made a good run on the right, but it was Sabastine who finally broke the deadlock.

Sabastine’s sliced shot from the right wing hit the post and rolled into the net, securing the game’s only goal. With this victory, Nigeria now faces a tough challenge against three-time champions Germany in their second group game on Wednesday.

Tags: Falconets, 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, #Colombia2024, #SoarFalconets, #U20WWC, Flourish Sabastine, Amina Bello, Mary Lucky Mkpa, Shukurat Bakare, Shukurat Oladipo, Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcnews, #nrtcsports.