Falconets Edge Senegal 1-0 in 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifier First Leg

Nigeria’s U20 women’s team, the Falconets, claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Senegal in the first leg of their 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup third-round qualifier on Saturday.

The tense encounter was played at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, where the Falconets dominated large spells of the match but struggled to convert their numerous chances.

The breakthrough came shortly after the restart when substitute Kindness Ifeanyi struck the decisive goal six minutes into the second half. The Bayelsa Queens forward rose highest to head home a well delivered corner kick from Shakirat Moshood.

Nigeria suffered a setback in the first half when their leading striker, Janet Akokoromowei, was forced off due to injury, slightly disrupting the team’s attacking rhythm.

Both sides will meet again for the second leg in Dakar next Saturday, with the winner on aggregate advancing to the final round of the qualification series.