Nigeria’s under-17 women’s football team the Flamingos were edged out by the Colombian U-17 side at the ongoing FIFA World Cup hosted by India.
The Bankole Olowookere tutored side gave their all but succumbed to the Colombian girls 6-5 on Penalties.
The Flamingos advanced to the semifinals of the competition for the first time with a 4-3 victory on penalties against the United States of America (USA).
In the semifinal against Colombia, the Flamingos dominated possession but weren’t clinical in front of goal and it led to a lot of missed chances.
The first half ended without a goal and after the break, Olowokere introduced striker Opeyemi Ajakaye for the second period.
Ajakaye was unable to stretch the Colombian defense as they defended deep in a block putting pressure on the Flamingos every time they lose the ball.
In the end, there was little ambition for both teams to score and without extra time the game proceeded to a penalty shoot-out.
Coach Olowookere introduced backup goalie Jiwuaku who showed brilliance in the penalty shootout against the United States.
Jiwuaku however saved one penalty but guessed wrong in the others.
Edafe Missed the fifth penalty that could have given Nigeria the Final ticket.
Comfort Folorunsho who missed a penalty against the USA saw her spot-kick saved in sudden death.
The Colombian teenagers will play the winner of Spain versus Germany in the final on Saturday.
Flamingos have a date with either Spain or Germany in the third-place fixture to stand a chance to win a bronze medal.
