Nigeria were handed a humiliating 6-0 defeat by Japan in their 2016 Fifa Women’s Under-20 World Cup opener on Sunday.

Coach Peter Dedevbo’s side suffered a heavy reversal at the youth competition in Papua New Guinea.

A treble from Mami Ueno followed by Yuka Momiki’s brace and an own goal from Mary Ologbosere compounded the woes of the African side at the Bava Park in Port Moresby.

Captain Sandra Chiichii and top striker Chinwendu Ihezuo both made coach Dedevbo’s starting line-up, while youngster Ogechi Ukwuoma was named in the team.

Japan did took long to break the deadlock through Momiki in the 34th minute, before Euno showed predatory instincts to double the lead three minutes later.

Nigeria did well to hold their own later on, particularly after the break, with a fair spell of possession, but it was the Asians who scored again through Momiki.

An own goal from Ologbosere made the scoreline 4-0.

The rampaging Euno completed a hattrick for herself with goals in the 62nd and 82nd minutes respectively.

The Falconets have three days to regroup for Wednesday’s match against Canada.

Falconets Starters Vs Japan: Sandra Chiichii (c), Mary Ologbosere, Glory Ogbonna, Ugochi Emenayo, Ogechi Ukwuoma, Amirat Adebisi Saheed, Patience Kalu, Chinaza Uchendu, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Rasheedat Ajibade, Yetunde Adeboyejo

Igho Kingsley