FIFA U20 Women's World Cup : Five observations from Nigeria's 2-0 loss to Netherlands

The Falconets crashed out of the ongoing FIFA U20 Women's World Cup at the quarterfinal stage following a 2-0 loss to the Netherlands at the Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto, Alajuela on Monday morning.

First half goals from Zera Hulswit and Ziva Henry condemned the African powerhouse to their first defeat of the tournament.

Allnigeriasoccer.com takes a look at five things we learned from Nigeria's loss to the Netherlands.

Sabastine threats

Flourish Sabastine as expected was a thorn in the flesh of the Dutch defenders with her twinkle toes.

This girl along with Esther Onyenezide, Rofiat Imuran and Mercy Idoko to name a few are definitely heading for the Super Falcons with their performance in Costa Rica.

Sabastine did have her chances but either met a strong wall of defence or simply did not take them.

No weather issues

There was no delay ahead of kick off over inclement weather as experienced in the Super Falconets' group games. The pitch was great for football.

Sloppy passes and clearances

This is the main reason for the defeat of the Falconets as the usual dependable defence let down their guard and gave away the ball rather clumsily.

The captain Blessing Demehin's sloppy attempt to clear the ball resulted in the second goal for the Oranje girls.

Missed chances by the Nigerian forwards

At the other end, the Falconets had so many shots on the statistics board but could not convert their chances.

It was a spirited performance but ultimately they met a good and disciplined defence.

Uneasy Dutch

The Netherlands were obviously not carried away by their lead towards the 75th to 80th minute mark as the Nigerian girls failed to get on the scoresheet.

Perhaps a goal conceded earlier by the Europeans could have opened up the game more.

The Dutch won ultimately but they did show deserved respect to their Nigerian opponents.

Izuchukwu Michael

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