Flourish Sabastine’s Late Strike Secures Falconets’ Victory Over Korea Republic.
In a thrilling encounter at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo, Bogota, Nigeria’s Falconets secured a crucial 1-0 win over Korea Republic, thanks to a stunning late goal by Flourish Sabastine. This victory places the Falconets in a strong position to advance to the Round of 16 at the 11th FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
The match was a tight contest between two formidable teams, both familiar with each other from previous encounters. Despite the limited number of clear-cut opportunities, Nigeria managed to carve out more chances, particularly in a lively second half.
Mary Lucky Mkpa, who led the Falconets’ attack, had several opportunities to break the deadlock but was unable to convert. The Koreans, who also fell to Nigeria by a solitary goal in the group stage of the last edition of the tournament in Costa Rica, nearly took the lead in the 15th minute. However, Nigerian defender Shukurat Oladipo made a crucial intervention to deny Park a clear shot on goal.
Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Shukurat Bakare, had a nervy moment in the 28th minute when she missed a cross, but fortunately, the Korean touch sent the ball over the crossbar. Mkpa came close at the other end but was unable to find the target following a pass from Rofiat Imuran. Just before halftime, the Falconets were let off the hook when Myeyung’s powerful free-kick from 22 yards struck the crossbar.
In the second half, both sides continued to press for the opening goal. Sabastine and Amina Bello saw their efforts blocked, while substitute Chiamaka Okwuchukwu made a promising run on the right. The decisive moment came late in the game when Sabastine, from the right wing, unleashed a superb strike that struck the upright and rolled into the net, securing all three points for Nigeria.
The Falconets will next face three-time champions Germany at the same venue on Wednesday evening, where they will look to continue their strong start to the tournament.
