Go back home - Italy sends Nigeria packing at FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup

Nigeria's journey at the 2025 U-17 Women's World Cup has come to an end after a heavy 4-0 defeat to Italy in the Round of 16 on Tuesday.

The Flamingos, who had advanced from the group stage as one of the best third-placed teams, were ultimately overwhelmed by a clinical Italian side. A series of goalkeeping errors proved costly as Italy scored three times in the second half to secure their spot in the quarter-finals.

Despite the final scoreline, Nigeria started the match brightly, putting pressure on the Italians in the first half.

However, their efforts were unrewarded, and they went into the break trailing 1-0 thanks to a goal from Anna Copelli.

Italy extended their advantage in the 58th minute when Caterina Venturelli found the net. Giulia Robino added a third, and Rachele Giudici sealed the comprehensive victory with a fourth goal in the 93rd minute, concluding a celebratory night for the Europeans and ending Nigeria's campaign.

This exit follows the Flamingos' best-ever performance in the tournament's history, a third-place finish in the 2022 edition.

In other tournament action, reigning champions North Korea demonstrated their title credentials with a commanding 6-1 win over host nation Morocco. The Moroccans managed a consolation goal from Maissane Ferkous, who scored on a rebound.

Brazil also booked their place in the next round with a comfortable 3-0 victory against China, netting two quick goals in the second half. The South American powerhouse will now face the winner of the Canada vs. Zambia match.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands secured a dramatic quarter-final berth by defeating the USA 7-6 in a penalty shootout. The match had ended 1-1 after regulation time, with Liv Pennock scoring for the Dutch and Micayla Johnson equalising for the Americans with a long-range effort. Dutch goalkeeper Maren Groothoff emerged as the hero, making the decisive saves in the shootout.