Nigeria’s U‑20 women’s side, known as the Falconets, advanced to the quarter‑finals of the 2026 FIFA U‑20 Women’s World Cup after a 3‑0 victory over England’s Young Lionesses in the Round of 16. The win sets up a quarter‑final clash with either hosts Poland or Colombia.
The goals came from Tosin Rafiu, Janet Akekoromowei and substitute Mary Mamudu, while captain Christianah Uzoma produced a crucial penalty‑spot save to keep the Europeans at bay.
Falconets head coach Moses Aduku said England had underestimated his squad. “The English team is a very good side and I think they underrated us, they never believed that we could play up to this level. But I said after the group stage that the World Cup is just starting,” he told FIFA.
Looking ahead, Aduku urged his players to stay focused. “After the game I told the players, this game is gone, let’s have a short celebration because we have the next game to play, so let’s focus on the next one,” he added.
The Falconets’ performance highlights Nigeria’s growing strength in women’s youth football, adding to the nation’s reputation as a powerhouse in African soccer.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
