New Zealand's exciting run at the Fifa Under-20 Women's World Cup came to an end at the quarterfinal stage as Nigeria claimed a 4-1 win in Canada yesterday.
The pace and power of the Nigerians proved too much for the New Zealand side, as the African nation made a lightning start, taking the lead inside the first 33 seconds as Asisat Oshoala headed home at the back post.
Nigeria was 2-0 up 12 minutes later when, with centre back Meikayla Moore off the field receiving treatment for an injury, Oshoala broke in behind the Junior Football Ferns defence to slip the ball beyond goalkeeper Lily Alfeld.
From that point, Nigeria left the New Zealanders little opportunity to establish a regular attacking threat despite an improved second-half performance.
The second period remained scoreless until Nigerian substitute Uchechi Sunday slammed the ball into the roof of the net after a corner with six minutes to go.
The Junior Ferns were rewarded for their hard work as Emma Rolston headed in a cross from substitute Jasmine Pereira in the 89th minute, but there was still time for Sunday to score her second of the day 60 seconds later to complete the scoring.
New Zealand coach Aaron McFarland rued the slow start which allowed the African side on the front foot within the first minute.
''I think as an overall view we were disappointed as a group with that first half,'' McFarland said.
''We were organised and ready to play but individually there were some moments when we weren't able to match their aggression or their speed.
''The second half, we were a lot more effective, but to come back from being 2-0 down against a good side like Nigeria was always going to be difficult.
''They'll dwell on it with a little bit of sadness and a bit of regret that in the first half they played within themselves and were a bit in awe of the opponent.
''By the time we found our feet we were chasing the game, so there'll be some disappointment in that regard.
''But I think eventually they'll look back and they should be proud of what they've achieved.''
