Canada U-17 women’s head coach Jen Herst admitted that her second-half tweaks paved the way for the victory over Nigeria, NEWSUNPLUG reports.
The North Americans defeated the Flamingos 4-1 in their opening fixture at the ongoing 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Rabat on Sunday night.
Nigeria dominated proceedings in the first half but were thwarted by goalkeeper Khadijah Cisse, who made a number of vital saves.
Canada scored first in the second minute through Gabriela Istocki, while Queen Joseph restored parity for the Flamingos on the hour mark.
Herst’s side, however, took control of the game in the second half and scored through Julia Amireh (brace) and Melisa Kekic.
The gaffer claimed her tactical adjustment was crucial for Canada’s victory.
“We made a couple of tweaks at half-time in terms of us being higher, being more aggressive, and looking to get pressure on them higher up the pitch with our wingers, with our full-backs. I think that really turned the tide and put it into our favour,” Herst was quoted by FIFA.com.