Nigeria Flamingos 4:0 Samoa - Retrospective Reflection

It was indeed a much improved performance from Nigeria's Flamingos against their U-17 counterparts from Samoa this weekend.

Bankole's young babes cruised to a 4-0 victory, effectively setting a up a date with high flying Italy in the knockout stages.

Having lost their first 2 matches, elimination at the group stages was starring them in the face.

But they pulled the chestnut out of the fire with a ruthless display that was laced with effectiveness across the park.

Bankole replaced the butterfingers goalkeeper who was in goal previously with Echefu who will have her work cut out against Italy; against Samoa, she wasn't overly troubled but she looked the part with her commanding aura.

4-4-2 formation served the team well particularly down the flanks where the number 7 Terlumu ruled the roost. The girl was penetrative, incisive and articulate in her play. Her take-ons were direct and compelling. Her passes were precise. Overall, on the ball, her play was a thing of beauty, poise and eloquence - a standout performer.

On the right, number 8 Moshood often over-egged her pudding as her dribbles oftentimes overstayed its welcome. She must learn to dwell less on the ball and be more decisive .

The team has a knack of delivering defence splitting passes from midfield to the wingers which left the Samoans chasing shadows on several occasions.

The team still over-indulged on meaningless and disgraceful long range shots. Seeing how they opened up Samoa with intricate passes severally, you are left to wonder why they piss on their own parade by shooting aimlessly.

The players looked comfortable in possession and exhibited competent ball control.

I implore anyone who didn't see the match live to watch the highlights then pay attention to the build up for the 3rd goal. It was mind-blowing in conception and jaw dropping in execution, culminating in Terlumu, on the lam from her markers, squaring across to Joseph to steal away from her markers and stab home with adroitness.

In all, it was a match well worth watching. Their style of play captured my attention and locked it in place.

But one has to be mindful that the opposition on the night was not the strongest.

Against Italy, these players and their coaches will have to dig deep and sing hard for their supper.