At the end of the first 45 minutes, Nigeria U20 Women lead England U20 Women 1-0. The Nigerian players started the match strongly, scoring in the 8th minute through a goal from Rafiu, marking a particularly effective start.
Despite this quick opening goal, it was the English team that dominated possession (60% to 38%). England was more active in the Nigerian half, recording 10 interventions in the penalty area compared to just 4 for their rivals, while also showing a higher Expected Goals (xG) of 1.39 against 0.33.
A golden opportunity to get back into the match arose for England in the 36th minute. However, Maltby missed her penalty, letting slip a crucial chance to equalize before halftime.
In terms of attempts, the match remains balanced with a total of 5 shots and 2 clear chances created on each side. Nigeria heads into the locker room with a valuable one-goal advantage, relying on maximum efficiency against an English side that dominates play but is too imprecise in finishing.
