Akide and her team mates were no match for the North Koreans

Nigeria's campaign at the women's World Cup in the United States got off to the worst possible start when they were thrashed 3-0 by North Korea on Saturday.

Jin Pyol Hui scored two goals and set up a third for Ri Un Gyong as the North Koreans won the opening Group A match in Philadelphia with considerable ease.

North Korea's quick-passing game provided dozens of openings in the first half but their strikers could not apply the finishing touch.

Only Jin's right-footed shot after poor marking by the Super Falcons' defenders went in during the opening 45 minutes.

Our girls were two steps behind. Sam Okpodu Nigeria coach

Nigeria, vastly outplayed in the first half, began the second period well and twice nearly equalised.

But, like their opponents, the African champions' attack led by Mercy Akide was inaccurate in front of goal.

Huge gaps in the Nigerian defence then reappeared midway in the second half but goalkeeper Precious Dede stood firm - for a while at least.

Nigerian coach Sam Okpodu admitted that his team "fell apart" and gave their Asian opponents an easy time.

"The Koreans were coming out attacking the ball," said Okpodu.

"Our girls were two steps behind. You can't have that."

After watching the North Koreans overpower his squad, Okpodu predicted that the Asian side will provide a tough fight for the United States.

Okpodu said: "It's going to be a tough game. "If the Koreans are afraid, they're going to be done."

The Americans play Sweden in their opening Group A match on Sunday.