Colombia 2024: Five takeaways from Nigeria Falconets’ crushing victory over Venezuela

Nigeria’s Falconets delivered a dominant performance, sealing a 4-0 win over Venezuela in their final Group D match at the 2025 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.

With the win, Nigeria advanced to the knockout rounds in their record-equalling 11th World Cup appearance.

Here are the top five takeaways from the match:

Nigeria’s Biggest World Cup Win in 10 Years

The Falconets showcased their attacking brilliance, netting four goals against Venezuela to finish their group campaign on a high.

This defeat marks the heaviest loss Venezuela has ever suffered in U20 Women’s World Cup history.

For Nigeria, it is their biggest victory at the U20 World Cup since thrashing Korea DPR 6-2 in August 2014, a tournament where Nigeria finished as runners-up to Germany.

However, the African giants’ most comprehensive win at the tournament dates back to 2006, when they hammered Finland 8-0.

Chiamaka Okwuchukwu: A Rare Gem

Nineteen-year-old forward Chiamaka Okwuchukwu has been central to Nigeria’s success.

While much was expected from stars like Sabastine Flourish, Opeyemi Ajakaye, and Janet Akekoromowei, it is Okwuchukwu who has truly lit up the World Cup for Nigeria.

Though she missed several chances against Germany, she redeemed herself with a brilliant header and two assists in the first half against Venezuela.

Drawing comparisons to a young Asisat Oshoala, Okwuchukwu will be key to Nigeria’s continued success.

Coach Danjuma’s Correct Call with Bakare

Goalkeeper Shukura Bakare was dropped to the bench after an unconvincing performance against Germany.

Faith Omilana was given her debut and rose to the occasion, delivering a solid performance and keeping a clean sheet.

Coach Danjuma’s decision to bench captain Oluchi Ohaegbulem following her poor display against Germany further shows his willingness to make tough calls for the benefit of the team.

The Falconets Qualify for the Round of 16

With two wins from three games, Nigeria secured six points to finish as Group D runners-up behind Germany.

This marks the ninth time in 11 World Cup appearances that Nigeria has reached the knockout stages.

Their next challenge will likely come against the winner of Group E, either Japan or Austria.

Areas for Improvement

Despite the emphatic win, Nigeria still need to sharpen certain aspects of their game.

The team’s short-passing style often results in frequent, unnecessary giveaways.

While their defence has been relatively solid, lapses in concentration could be costly against tougher opposition.

Efficiency in front of goal is also a concern, as the Falconets have been guilty of squandering scoring opportunities — a weakness that Germany exploited on matchday two.

To challenge for the title, the Falconets must find the right balance between attack and defence.