Nigeria’s U-20 women’s team, the Falconets, are targeting a commanding first leg result when they host Senegal in the first match of their third round FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifying tie at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta. The fixture is part of Nigeria’s quest to reach the 2026 World Cup in Poland.
Head coach Moses Aduku has stressed the importance of not only winning at home on Saturday but also building a healthy goal cushion to take into the return leg in Dakar on February 14.
The Falconets reached this stage after a convincing 5–0 aggregate victory over Rwanda in the second round of qualifying, dominating both home and away legs.
Senegal earned their place in this round with a strong aggregate win over Algeria and arrive as a free-scoring opponent, presenting a significant challenge for Nigeria.
Aduku has emphasised that converting home advantage into goals will be key for the Falconets, noting that an early lead in the tie could make the path to the next round much smoother.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) approved the relocation of the first leg match from Ibadan’s Lekan Salami Stadium to Abeokuta due to concerns over the pitch at the original venue.
Nigerian football fans are being urged to turn out in large numbers to support the Falconets, with both the coach and captain highlighting the motivational impact of home backing on the players.
Editorial
For the Falconets, this first leg against Senegal represents a defining moment in their World Cup qualifying campaign. Securing a substantial advantage at home will not only boost confidence but also apply psychological pressure on their opponents ahead of the return fixture in Senegal.
The venue change to Abeokuta, while unexpected, could work in Nigeria’s favour if the team capitalises on local support and optimal playing conditions. In qualifiers like this, fine margins can determine progression especially over two legs, so turning home advantage into a strong scoreline is a tactical priority.
From a broader perspective, performing well at this stage reinforces the Falconets’ reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent youth women’s teams and strengthens the case for their continued development on the world stage.
Did You Know?
- The Falconets reached the third round with a 5–0 aggregate win over Rwanda in the second qualifying round.
- The first leg against Senegal will be played at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.
- Senegal advanced by defeating Algeria with an emphatic aggregate score to reach this stage.
- The return leg of the tie is scheduled for February 14 in Dakar, Senegal.
- CAF approved the venue change from Ibadan due to pitch concerns at Lekan Salami Stadium.
