Germany defeat Nigeria’s Falconets 3-1 in FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup group stage clash

Germany secured a 3-1 victory over Nigeria’s Falconets in a thrilling Group B encounter at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup on Wednesday night.

The win propelled the Germans to the top of their group with six points from two games, while Nigeria sits in second place with three points following their matchday one win over South Korea.

Germany took the lead in the 17th minute when forward Sehitler Alara found the back of the net, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Nigeria. Despite struggling to impose themselves in the first half, the Falconets came out stronger in the second half and leveled the scoreline in the 50th minute through Okwuchukwu Chiamaka, who coolly finished a well-worked team move.

However, Germany responded swiftly. Zdebel Sofie restored the lead for the European side in the 61st minute with a precise finish, leaving the Nigerian defence scrambling. Nigeria pressed forward in search of an equalizer, but their hopes were dashed deep into stoppage time when Ernst S. scored Germany’s third goal, sealing the win for the three-time champions.

The result means Germany maintains a perfect record with two wins from two matches, while Nigeria now faces a more challenging path to qualification for the Round of 16. The Falconets will need a strong performance in their final group match to secure a spot in the knockout stages.

Having won their opening game 1-0 against South Korea, thanks to a late strike by Flourish Sabastine, Nigeria entered the match against Germany with confidence. However, they struggled to contain the Germans, who have been dominant throughout the group stages of the tournament.

The Falconets will now shift their focus to their next match, knowing that victory will be crucial to advancing in the competition.