 Nigeria have only once progressed beyond the group stage |
Nigeria's Women's World Cup campaign has ended with a 1-0 defeat to the USA in Shanghai on Tuesday. The Americans scored after 57 seconds when a shot from Lori Chalupny was deflected in off Ulumma Jerome.
It was the second-fastest goal in the history of the tournament.
Nigeria responded with some attacking play, but an unconvincing USA held firm to secure their progress.
Both goalkeepers had to make saves in the final minutes of the game, with Rita Chikwelu coming close for the Super Falcons.
The match was played in heavy rain, making it hard to play a passing game.
A dispute over pay and bonuses also made things difficult for Nigeria.
Players refused to practice for several days before the match, until the stand-off was settled on the eve of the game.
The Super Falcons finished bottom of Group B with one draw and two defeats.
They were, however, pitted against three of the top five sides in the world, and their results had an air of respectability.
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