The United States ended Nigeria’s pursuit of a FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title with a 2-0 victory in their quarterfinal showdown at the CFC Stadium in Santiago de los Caballeros on Saturday. Two goals from Katharine Fuller and substitute Kimball Ascanio propelled the Americans to victory, avenging their 2022 loss to Nigeria in the same stage of the tournament.
Fuller opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute, putting the USA in control. Ascanio extended their lead in the 74th minute, sealing the Flamingos’ exit despite Nigeria’s previously impressive campaign. The Flamingos had dominated their group stage, defeating New Zealand, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic, scoring nine goals and conceding just one.
Coach Bankole Olowookere made early tactical changes, introducing Blessing Ifitezue and Victory Ekezie to replace Peace Effiong and Risikat Azeez in the first half. However, these adjustments failed to turn the tide in Nigeria’s favor as the USA maintained control. Coach Natalia Astrain’s strategic substitutions strengthened the Americans’ grip on the game, with Ascanio’s late goal confirming their dominance.
The result brought a disappointing close to Nigeria’s campaign after hopes had been high for a repeat of their 2022 quarterfinal triumph over the USA, which they won on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
