Nigeria are all but assured of a place at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup finals after they defeated Senegal’s U20 squad 3-1 in their away game on Saturday evening in Thies.
In the encounter at the Stade Lat-Dior, Flourish Sebastine, who plays for Edo Queens, struck a hat-trick and left no doubt about the Falconets’ enthusiasm and determination to carry Africa’s flag in Costa Rica in five months.
It was the nimble-footed forward who started the havoc in the 9th minute and scored twice in the second half as Senegal, who reached this round after overcoming Mali on penalties in the fourth round, crumbled.
In the 89th minute, Togo referee Vincenta Amedome awarded a penalty to the hosts after Oluwatosin Demehin tripped a forward in Nigeria’s box.
A masterclass performance was delivered by the Falconets with silky touches, good positioning, and on-field aptitude and proficiency.
Benin City will host the return leg on Saturday, 26th March at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.