The two-time runners-up are aiming to make history at the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.
Nigeria’s Falconets have departed Abuja for Poland as they begin the final stage of preparations for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
The team left Nigeria on Monday night after completing their final training programme in Abuja under head coach Moses Aduku and his technical crew. The preparations focused on fitness, tactics, teamwork and mental readiness.
Nigeria booked its place at the tournament after overcoming Rwanda, Senegal and Malawi during the African qualifiers.
The Falconets defeated Rwanda 5–0 on aggregate, edged Senegal 3–1 and then overcame Malawi 3–2 on aggregate to secure their World Cup ticket.
Aduku believes his players are ready for the challenge and has set his sights on a strong campaign in Poland.
Captain Joy Igbokwe has also urged Nigerians to continue supporting the team, promising that the players will give their best to make the country proud.
Falconets face Spain in World Cup opener
Nigeria have been drawn in Group F alongside Spain, China PR and New Caledonia.
The Falconets will open their campaign against Spain on September 7, before facing China PR on September 10 and New Caledonia on September 13.
Nigeria have finished runners-up at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup twice — in 2010 and 2014. But have never won the competition.
The Falconets are also the only African team to have appeared at every edition of the tournament since it began in 2002.
The 2026 tournament will therefore present another opportunity for Nigeria to turn its remarkable consistency into a first-ever world title.
Falconets squad for FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026
Goalkeepers/Players: Christiana Uzoma, Jane Ijirigho, Ramotalahi Kareem, Queen Joseph, Favour Nkwocha, Rebecca Adegbemile, Joy Igbokwe, Faridat Abdulwahab, Precious Oscar, Tumininu Adeshina, Bright Etim, Onyedikachi Ekezie, Victory Lucky, Mary Mamudu, Hannah Ibrahm, Tosin Rafiu, Janet Akekoromowei, Amber Ogbolu, Winner David, Chisom Nwachukwu and Jumai Adebayo.