A composed penalty from Azeezatt Oduntan in the 89th minute proved the difference in a tense, hard-fought contest at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.
The match was finely balanced for long periods. Nigeria controlled more of the ball and created the better opportunities, but Venezuela defended with discipline and organisation, frustrating the Flamingos for much of the evening.
First Half Stalemate
Both sides started cautiously. Nigeria, buoyed by their impressive run of form that included victories over Puerto Rico, North Korea and Mexico, looked to impose their attacking style early. However, clear-cut chances were limited as Venezuela sat deep and looked to hit on the counter.
Midfielder Favour Nkwocha and forward Oluebube Umejiaku were lively for the Nigerians, while Venezuela goalkeeper and defensive unit dealt well with most of the pressure. The first half ended goalless, with neither side able to find a breakthrough.
Second Half Tension
The second half followed a similar pattern. Nigeria continued to dominate possession and territorial advantage, forcing Venezuela deeper into their own half. Substitutions were made by both coaches as the game became increasingly stretched.
Yellow cards were shown to Favour Nkwocha and Emmanuella Stephen for Nigeria, and to A. Suárez for Venezuela, as the physical intensity rose.
As the clock ticked past the 80-minute mark, the contest appeared headed for extra time. Nigeria kept pushing, and their persistence finally paid off in the dying moments.
Late Penalty Drama
In the 89th minute, the Flamingos were awarded a penalty after a foul inside the area. Azeezatt Oduntan stepped up and coolly converted from the spot, sending the Venezuelan goalkeeper the wrong way to make it 1-0.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Nigerian players and technical staff. Venezuela pushed forward in search of an equaliser in stoppage time, but the Flamingos’ defence stood firm to see out the victory.
Semi-Final Awaits
The result continues Nigeria’s strong resurgence in the tournament. After an opening group-stage defeat to Poland, the Flamingos have now won four consecutive matches and remain one of the most dangerous sides left in the competition.
They will face either China PR or Brazil in the semi-finals on Wednesday, with a place in the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup at stake.
Coach Akeem Busari’s side will take great confidence from their ability to grind out results under pressure, a quality that has defined their campaign so far in Morocco.