By Onyekachi Chimezie
Nigeria U-17 women’s team forward, Opeyemi Ajakaye was handed the player of the match award as Nigeria overcame Germany in a penalty shootout to win the bronze medal at the just concluded cadet World Cup in India.
Flamingos were out to redeem themselves after a painful defeat at the hands of Colombia in the semi-finals in which they lost 6-5 on penalties.
In their second match against Germany in Navi- Mumbai, the Flamingos came all out for revenge after losing their opening game of the competition 2-1 to the European giants despite taking the lead.
Sixteen-year-old Opeyemi Ajakaye opened the scoring for the Flamingos in the 20th minute after a sublime run from her half before Amina Bello doubled the scores for Nigeria three minutes after the break, Edidiong Etim then made it three, 27 minutes from time.
Germany then rallied back from three goals down to level the scoring after getting their first goal of the afternoon in the 73rd minute.
After failing to seal the game in regular time, the Flamingos who are playing in the best women’s U-17 World Cup tournament redeemed themselves by winning 3-2 on penalties to clinch the bronze medal.
Ajakaye, who currently holds the award for Lagos State FA Cup Most Valuable Player (MVP) scored her first goal of the tournament in the sixth game after being the highest scorer in the qualification rounds said she is very excited to get the goal while commenting on her player of the match award.
She also took out time to appreciate the fans for their constant support, words and encouragement while concluding her interview.
