Falconets Soar Past Rwanda, Secure Final Qualifying Spot for 2026 U-20 Women’s World Cup

Nigeria’s Falconets have once again proven why they remain a dominant force in African women’s football, sealing their place in the final qualifying round of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup with a commanding 4-0 victory over Rwanda at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, on Saturday.

The result meant Moses Aduku’s side progressed 5-0 on aggregate, putting them one step closer to booking a ticket to the global showpiece.

The game was a statement of intent from the very beginning. Precious Oscar opened the scoring in the 13th minute, setting the tone for what would be a long evening for the visitors. Tumininu Adeshina doubled the lead just seven minutes later, sending the home fans into loud celebrations.

In the second half, Janet Akekoromwei extended the margin before substitute Taiwo Afolabi added the fourth to seal the emphatic win.

With the victory, the Falconets now await the winner between Senegal and Algeria in the final qualifying round.

Opinion: A Glimpse of Nigeria’s Bright Future in Women’s Football

This emphatic win is more than just a scoreline; it’s a reminder of the Falconets’ consistency and resilience on the continent. Time and again, Nigeria’s youth teams have carried the nation’s football pride, and the Falconets are no exception.

What stands out about this team is not just the goals but the hunger, fluidity, and teamwork displayed by Aduku’s side. These young ladies are not only chasing qualification—they’re showcasing the depth of Nigeria’s footballing talent and sending a clear message that women’s football in the country is alive, thriving, and deserves even greater investment.

As they prepare for a tougher battle against either Senegal or Algeria, the Falconets must remain grounded but confident. If Saturday’s performance is anything to go by, Nigeria is not only on the path to the World Cup but also to once again being a formidable contender on the global stage.

The Falconets’ journey is proof that with the right support, the future of Nigerian women’s football shines bright.