Shakirat Moshood’s spectacular 89th-minute strike from 24 yards secured a dramatic 1-0 victory for Nigeria’s Flamingos, in their third match at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The early morning victory places the Nigerian team at the top of their group with a perfect nine points from three matches, three points ahead of second-placed Ecuador.

Unlike their earlier games against New Zealand and Ecuador, where the Flamingos scored multiple goals in the first half, this match’s deciding moment came in the 89th minute.

Despite fierce resistance from the hosts—especially Captain Renata Mercedes and goalkeeper Rondon—the Flamingos managed to defend their lead until the final whistle.

Coach Bankole Olowookere made strategic changes to the starting lineup, introducing Rokibat Azeez, Blessing Ifitezue, and Ramotalahi Kareem, while later bringing back Peace Effiong and Harmony Chidi to strengthen the squad.

Nigeria ended the group phase with three consecutive wins and will next face the United States on Saturday.

This matchup serves as a rematch of their quarterfinal duel at India 2022, where Nigeria emerged victorious after a tense penalty shootout.