Nigeria’s Falconets secured a narrow 1-0 win over Senegal in the first leg of their third-round qualifier for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
The match was played at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta and was a tense contest, with both teams well organised in defence.
Kindness Ifeanyi, a second half substitute, won the match for the Falconets in the 51st minute, when she sauntered home a powerful header from a corner pullout by defender Tumininu Adeshina.
Though the Falconets clearly dominated the match, they failed to utilize their chances and dominance in front of goals. The Senegalese goalkeeper, Adji Ndiaye put up several saves to keep the margin slim.
An injury sent Falconets’ star striker, Janet ‘Semenya’ Akekomowei, out in the first half, dealing a massive blow to the home team.
The second leg will be played in Dakar, Senegal next weekend and the overall winners of the two legged fixture will advance to final playoffs for the World Cup qualifiers.
About The Author
