Nigeria’s Falconets secured a convincing 3-0 victory over England at the Bielsko-Biała Stadium on Thursday to book their place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
An early goal from Tosin Rafiu, alongside second-half strikes from Janet Akekoromowei and Mary Mamudu, saw the Falconets produce a statement result and advance to the final eight of the tournament for the ninth time.
Nigeria took the lead just seven minutes into the game, with Tosin Rafiu scoring her second goal of the tournament to put the Falconets 1-0 ahead.
Captain and Goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma then preserved Nigeria’s advantage with a couple of important saves, including denying Rachel Maltby from the penalty spot in the 34th minute.
More Read
Just as they did in the first half, Moses Aduku’s side made a stunning start to the second half and were rewarded with another early goal. This time, Janet Akekoromowei found the net to make it 2-0, extending Nigeria’s lead and leaving the Young Lionesses with a mountain to climb.
Mary Mamudu wrapped up Nigeria’s victory in the 73rd minute, scoring her first goal of the tournament to put an end to England’s hopes of a comeback. The Falconets held on to add further gloss to the scoreline as they kept a clean sheet for the second time in the tournament.
The result means Nigeria remain Africa’s only representatives at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. The Falconets will continue their journey when they face either Poland or Colombia in the quarter-finals, scheduled for September 20, 2026.
For England, the defeat marks the end of the road for the Young Lionesses, who continue their search for a maiden U-20 Women’s World Cup title.
© Bold Sports Media. All rights reserved. If sharing, kindly credit Bold Sports as the source and include a link to the original post. Unauthorised use is prohibited.
