Nigeria’s Falconets lost 1-2 to Spain in their quarterfinal encounter of the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup against played on Thursday, August 16.
The Falconets progressed to the quarterfinal after a draw, loss and win in their three group stage games while, Spain finished comfortably of their group after two wins and a draw.
The game started at a high pace with both sides creating chances until the Spanish side seized control of the encounter with their consistent penetrative passing of the ball from side to side working the Falconets up and down the pitch.
playThe Falconets conceded two first half goals from Spain (FIFA)
Spain eventually broke the deadlock in the encounter when Aitana Bonmatí Conca converted a penalty in the 13th minute.
Falconets star player Rasheedat Ajibade tried to make things happen but her shot was saved as Spain continued the possession based high pressure game.
Spain scored their second goal of the game just before the referee blew the whistle for the half time break through Patri Guijarro.
playSpain are through to the semifinal of the U-20 FIFA Women’s World Cup (FIFA)
The Falconets tried to get into the game at the start of the second half, creating chances only to be stopped impressively by the Spanish.
They however got a lifeline when star midfielder Peace Efih pulled one goal back in the 57th minute.
playRasheedat Ajibade could not save the Falconets as Spain beat them 2-1 (FIFA)
The Falconets could not get an equalising goal to force the game to extra time as they crashed out of the competition.
The Falconets defeat means that they have been eliminated from the competition while Spain progress to the semifinals where they will face the winners of the France vs Japan quarterfinal fixture.
