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Falconets step up preparations for FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifier against against Rwanda
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, are intensifying preparations ahead of their crucial FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Rwanda in September.
The Falconets, who received a bye in the first round, will travel to Kigali for the first leg on September 21, 2025, before hosting the return fixture at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, on September 27, 2025.
Rwanda advanced to this stage after edging Zimbabwe 2-1 on aggregate.
Newly appointed head coach Moses Aduku expressed confidence in the team’s progress, despite initial challenges:
“So far, so good, the players are responding to training. The first week was tough because they had been off for about two months, but with conditioning and tactical drills, the team has improved. Rwanda is a strong side with pace and good teamwork, but we have studied their matches and are working on strategies to neutralize their threats. We still have two more weeks to prepare, and I believe the girls will be ready.”
Team captain Joy Igbokwe echoed the coach’s optimism, emphasizing the players’ commitment:
“As captain, I’m privileged to lead this team. We know Rwanda is a good side, but so are we. Through our training sessions and friendly matches, we’ve been working very hard together. By God’s grace, we believe our first match in Kigali will be a success.”
The Falconets have a proud legacy, having qualified for every edition of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup since 2002.
After reaching the Round of 16 in the 2024 edition, they are aiming for another strong run as they target a ticket to the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.
The winner of the two-legged tie will face the victor of Algeria vs Senegal in the next round. The eventual winner of that decisive tie will secure qualification for Poland.
