European champions Germany on Tuesday defeated Nigeria’s under-17 women national team 2-1 in their opening match at the 2022 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup in Goa, India.
Team top goalscorer Opeyemi Ajakaye struck the woodwork in the 18th minute as the Flamingos started brightly, but defender Miracle Usani headed the rebound wide.
However, Usani would enter the tournament books when she powered into the net a free-kick in the 30th minute to give Nigeria hope.
Goalkeeper Faith Omilana came up with two great saves to preserve Nigeria’s lead as the Flamingos led 1-0 at the break.
The well-drilled Germans scored twice in the second period to scoop all three points.
Svea Stold equalised four minutes into the second half and Albert Mura added a second 12 minutes later.
The Flamingos will be back on the turf of Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday to seek the three points against New Zealand.
Nigeria are in Group B of the competition alongside Germany, Chile and New Zealand.
Nigeria will take on Chile on Monday in their third and final group phase match.
The 2022 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup which began on Tuesday in India will end on October 30.
