Dominican Republic 2024: Flamingos hammer hosts Liberia 4-1

Posted : 09 June 2024

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FIFA World Cup bronze medallists Nigeria routed Liberia 4-1 in a fast-paced FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup final qualifying round, first leg encounter in Monrovia on Sunday. The match showcased Nigeria's dominance and intent to secure a spot in the World Cup, building on their reputation as a strong team in youth tournaments.

The Flamingos got off to a pretty quick start at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex at the Paynesville, but the Liberian girls, who shocked Senegal on the away-goal rule to reach this final round, warded off the early threats. The home team’s defense initially held firm against Nigeria's aggressive attacks, showcasing their determination and resilience in front of their supporters.

Nigeria got the ball into the net after 14 minutes, but Chadian referee Lare Lamngar ruled it off. Not to be deterred or discouraged, the Flamingos poured forward once again, and in the 19th minute, Shakirat Moshood opened the scoring from a sweet solo run. Moshood's goal was a testament to her skill and composure, giving Nigeria the lead they had been pressing for.

Peace Effiong, who got a brace in the 6-0 defeat of Burkina Faso at the MKO Abiola National Stadium last month, scored in the 29th minute to put a wedge of respect between the two teams. Effiong’s goal further solidified Nigeria's control over the game and highlighted her knack for finding the back of the net in crucial matches.

Usual suspect Harmony Chidi, scorer of six of the 12 goals that sank the Central African Republic, and who equally netted four in the 7-1 dismissal of Burkina Faso in the last round, headed home her 11th goal of the qualifying series in the 36th minute to put daylight between both teams. Chidi’s prolific scoring ability has been a key asset for Nigeria throughout the qualifying rounds.

On resumption, Nigeria continued to dominate, and substitute Blessing Ifitezue made it four with 16 minutes left. Ifitezue's goal underscored Nigeria's depth and the impact of their substitutes, making it increasingly difficult for Liberia to mount any form of comeback.

Liberia scored a consolation goal with five minutes left, from the penalty spot, through Yassah Gwaikolo, after substitute Onyedikachi Ekezie was adjudged to have committed a foul in the area. Gwaikolo’s goal provided a glimmer of hope for the home crowd, but it was too little too late to change the outcome of the match.

The Flamingos will return to Nigeria on Tuesday and immediately commence preparations for the return leg encounter scheduled for Friday at the MKO Abiola National Stadium. The team will be focused on maintaining their advantage and ensuring their place in the World Cup finals with another strong performance on home soil.

Dominican Republic 2024: Flamingos hammer hosts Liberia 4-1

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