Nigeria’s U-20 women’s football team, the Falconets, are set to take on Malawi U-20 on Saturday in the second leg of their final qualifying fixture for the 2026 FIFA Women’s U-20 World Cup in Poland.
The Falconets take on the Malawi at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, holding a 2-0 advantage from the first leg played in Ikenne-Remo last week. The return-leg fixture kicks-off at 02:00 pm (WAT).
Head coach Moses Aduku confirmed the team’s readiness to clinch the ticket to Poland. Speaking during the official pre-match press conference, Aduku expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and determination to secure qualification.
“We are here to play and to win. The players understand the importance of this match, and we are fully prepared mentally, tactically, and physically for the challenge ahead,” he said.
The Falconets’ technical crew reviewed the team’s recent performances and emphasised the importance of maintaining concentration and intensity throughout the encounter.
While the team has demonstrated strong second-half performances in recent match, preparations have also focused on improving early-game efficiency and converting scoring opportunities sooner.
Aduku noted that training sessions in camp have been specifically designed to sharpen attacking coordination, strengthen defensive organisation, while ensuring the players remain fully prepared for the demands of the crucial encounter.
Nigeria swept past Rwanda and Senegal on their way to this final round, with the East Africans falling 5-0 on aggregate, while the West Africans lost 3-1 on aggregate.
In other fixtures, Ghana play away in Kampala against Uganda’s U20 girls, who restricted them to a 2-1 win in Accra last Saturday, while Cameroon hold a 3-1 advantage over Tanzania’s girls as both clash in Dar es Salaam.
Benin Republic will fancy their chances as they host Cote d’Ivoire, with the first leg in Abidjan having ended in a 1-1 draw.
