Nigeria's U-17 women’s team continued their impressive run at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic with a commanding 4-0 victory over Ecuador in their second Group A match.
Head coach Bankole Olowookere, known for his attacking philosophy, saw his side execute it to perfection at the CFC Stadium in Santiago de los Caballeros, with Shakirat Moshood stealing the show.
The left-footed forward netted twice, taking her tournament tally to three goals in two games and driving Nigeria to their second win of the competition. The victory keeps the Flamingos at the top of Group A with six points, positioning them as strong contenders for the knockout stages.
First-half dominance
Nigeria set the tempo from the outset, controlling possession and forcing Ecuador into defensive errors. The breakthrough came midway through the first half when midfield star Taiwo Afolabi was fouled in the box.
After a brief VAR check, Moshood stepped up to calmly convert the penalty and give Nigeria a deserved 1-0 lead.
Ecuador struggled to gain a foothold, with Nigeria’s relentless pressing and pace on display throughout the opening 45 minutes. Despite a few chances for the South Americans towards the end of the half, the Flamingos went into the break comfortably in control.
Second-half rout
Nigeria’s dominance continued in the second half as Harmony Chidi scored her first goal of the tournament with a powerful strike to double the lead.
The game was sealed when substitute goalkeeper Melany Pozo’s mistake allowed Peace Effiong to score Nigeria’s third.
In stoppage time, Moshood added a final flourish with her second goal, expertly finishing off a Chidi back-pass to make it 4-0.
With their perfect start, Nigeria will face hosts Dominican Republic next, needing just a point to secure top spot in the group.
