Nigeria’s Falconets have advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after a convincing 3-0 victory over England in their Round of 16 encounter in Poland on Thursday.
The result capped a remarkable recovery for Moses Aduku’s side, who had taken just one point from their opening two Group F matches before exploding into life with a 10-1 victory over New Caledonia to reach the knockout stage.
Tosin Rafiu set Nigeria on course for victory in the eighth minute before Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei extended the advantage shortly after the restart. Mary Mamudu completed the scoring in the 73rd minute as the Falconets maintained control of the contest.
England had opportunities to get back into the game, but goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma played a decisive role in keeping Nigeria ahead. She produced a crucial save from Princess Ademiluyi before denying Rachel Maltby from the penalty spot, with the effort pushed onto the crossbar.
The Falconets had entered the knockout phase after losing 2-0 to Spain and drawing 0-0 with China, leaving qualification dependent on their final group fixture. Their emphatic win over New Caledonia secured second place in Group F with four points.
Nigeria, twice runners-up at the U-20 Women’s World Cup, will meet either hosts Poland or Colombia in the quarter-finals on Sunday as they continue their pursuit of a maiden title.
