Falconets lose World Cup opener to Spain

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Nigeria’s Falconets began their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign on a losing note after falling 2-0 to former champions Spain in their Group F opener in Poland on Monday.

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Spain, who won the competition in 2022, controlled much of the encounter at the Arena Sosnowiec and took the lead in the 13th minute through Marisa García.

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The goal came after Noemí Bejarano worked her way down the flank before sending a low ball into the box, with García finishing to put Spain ahead.

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Nigeria struggled to create clear chances in the first half and had to wait until the 37th minute for their first attempt, with Kafayat Mafisere shooting wide from distance.

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The Falconets returned from the break with greater attacking intent, with Precious Oscar and Victory Lucky introduced as Nigeria sought an equaliser.

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However, Spain remained dangerous, and goalkeeper Laia López kept out Nigeria’s attempts as the European side maintained its advantage.

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Spain eventually doubled their lead in the 73rd minute when Alba Cerrato capitalised on a poor clearance before beating Christiana Uzoma to make it 2-0.

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The defeat leaves Nigeria without a point after the opening round of Group F matches, with China PR moving to the top after a 5-0 victory over New Caledonia earlier on Monday.

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The Falconets will face China on Thursday, knowing a positive result will be important to their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

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Nigeria remain capable of progressing despite the setback, with the top two teams in each of the six groups and the four best third-placed sides advancing to the round of 16.

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The Falconets are among the most experienced teams in the competition, having finished runners-up in 2010 and 2014 and reached the knockout stage in eight of their previous nine appearances before this year’s tournament.

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The 2026 tournament is being staged in Poland from September 5 to 27, with 24 teams competing across six groups.

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