The Nigeria U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, now know when they will face Malawi in the decisive final qualifying round of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup African qualifiers. The two leg tie will determine one of Africa’s four representatives for the World Cup in Poland later this year.
The first leg will be played at home in Nigeria between May 1 and May 3, 2026, with the venue yet to be announced by the Nigeria Football Federation. The return leg in Blantyre, Malawi, is scheduled between May 8 and May 10, 2026 as the Falconets target qualification for the global finals.
Nigeria earned their place in this final round by beating Senegal 3–1 on aggregate in the previous phase, while Malawi advanced after defeating Guinea-Bissau.
Editorial
With the dates for the crucial final qualifying round now set, the Falconets have a clear schedule as they chase one of Africa’s four spots at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. Playing Malawi over two legs in early May gives coach Moses Aduku and his squad time to prepare tactically and physically for what promises to be a competitive tie.
Nigeria’s youth women’s teams have a strong pedigree at this level, and maintaining that tradition will depend on character, set piece effectiveness, and defensive organisation over both matches. Fans will be keen to see home support galvanise the team in the first leg before the return in Malawi.
Securing qualification would not only continue Nigeria’s unbroken run to every FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup since its inception but also spotlight emerging talent for future senior national team duties. With just one step left, the Falconets face a defining moment in their campaign.
Did You Know?
- The first leg of the final Falconets vs Malawi qualifier is set between May 1–3, 2026.
- The return leg in Blantyre, Malawi, will be played between May 8–10, 2026.
- Nigeria reached this round by beating Senegal 3–1 on aggregate in the previous qualifying stage.
- Malawi progressed after defeating Guinea-Bissau in their final qualifying phase.
- The 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup will be hosted in Poland from September 5 to 27, 2026.
