U17 WWC Nigeria 1-4 Canada: Joseph goal counts for nothing as Flamingos lose opener

The Flamingos of Nigeria suffered a 4-1 defeat to Canada in their opening Fifa U17 Women's World Cup match on Sunday night in Morocco.

Canada took an early lead just two minutes into the game through Gabriela Istocki. 

Nigeria responded in the 29th minute when Queen Joseph scored to level the match at 1-1, sending the teams into halftime tied. 

Despite creating 13 attempts in the first half, six of which were on target compared to Canada's two, the Flamingos were unable to convert their chances into additional goals.

In the second half, Canada regained the lead in the 73rd minute with a strike from Melisa Kekic. 

Julia Amireh then scored twice in quick succession, netting in the 80th and 86th minutes to complete a 4-1 victory for the North American side.

Nigeria will look to regroup as they prepare for their second group-stage game against France on Wednesday, October 22. 

While Nigeria showed attacking promise, defensive errors proved costly, and the team will need to tighten at the back to recover in the tournament.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: Super Falcons Show

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