Nigeria’s Falconets produced a stunning attacking display at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, thrashing New Caledonia 10-1 to secure their place in the Round of 16.
The result was Nigeria’s biggest-ever victory at the tournament and ensured the Falconets finished second in Group F to progress to the knockout stage.
Nigeria took control early, scoring four times in the opening 27 minutes. Ramotalahi Kareem converted a 17th-minute penalty before Rebecca Adegbemile doubled the lead two minutes later.
Janet Seimeyeha Akekoromowei made it 3-0 in the 23rd minute, with Kareem adding her second four minutes later as Nigeria went into the break with a commanding advantage.
The goals continued after half-time as Winner Onajite David struck in the 60th minute, followed by Kareem’s third four minutes later to complete her hat-trick. Tosin Rafiu then added Nigeria’s seventh in the 70th minute.
Adegbemile scored her second in the 74th minute before David took over, finding the net in the 75th minute and again in stoppage time to complete her hat-trick.
New Caledonia grabbed a consolation through Joceline Kourevi in the 89th minute, but Nigeria remained firmly in control until the final whistle.
Kareem and David finished with three goals apiece, while Adegbemile contributed twice.
