Nigeria’s Falconets suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Colombia after conceding a late goal in their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup quarter-final on Sunday.
The match appeared headed for extra time after neither side could break the deadlock during the regulation 90 minutes. However, 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 into the lead after Nigeria had defended resolutely for most of the encounter.
The Falconets came close to breaking the deadlock earlier when defender Tumininu Adeshina stepped forward and unleashed a powerful left-footed effort from distance. The shot appeared destined for the net before Colombia goalkeeper Louisa Agudelo produced a fine save to tip it over the bar.
The first half ended goalless, with both sides creating chances. Colombia threatened through Loboa and Isabella Diaz, while Nigeria also had opportunities to take the lead.
The Falconets increased the pressure after the restart, with Favour Nkwocha, Kafayat Mafisere, Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei and Onyedikachi Ekezie all attempting to find the breakthrough.
Nigeria were reduced to 10 players in the 77th minute when Mafisere was sent off, with the red card subsequently confirmed following a VAR review.
The Falconets made several substitutions as they searched for a response, bringing on Winner Onajite David, Precious Oscar and Victory Lucky at different stages of the second half.
Despite playing with 10 players, Nigeria continued to push forward and created chances late in the game. Akekoromowei had an opportunity in the seventh minute of added time, but the Falconets were unable to find an equaliser before the final whistle.
Colombia also continued to threaten, with Loboa among those who tested the Nigerian defence. Her late strike ultimately settled a closely contested quarter-final.
Colombia will face the winner of the quarter-final between DPR Korea and Canada for a place in the semi-finals.
