Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, will begin their bid for a place at the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in the second round of the African qualifiers, where they are set to face the winner of the Rwanda vs Zimbabwe first-round tie.
The Falconets, among Africa’s most dominant youth sides, were granted a bye into the second round by virtue of their strong track record in the competition.
The qualifiers officially kick off across the continent this weekend, marking the first steps on the road to Poland, host of the 2026 tournament set for August.
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Africa’s qualification process comprises four knockout rounds, with only four nations ultimately advancing to the global showpiece.
Falconets players pose for a team photo before the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup round of 16 match between Japan and Nigeria (Photo by Getty Images)
Nigeria’s record in the qualifiers is unrivalled — 44 wins, three draws, and no defeats — a testament to their consistency and strength at this level.
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The Falconets have featured in every edition of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup since its inception. They reached the final twice — in 2010 and 2014 — but fell short on both occasions, losing to Germany. Nevertheless, the team remains a continental powerhouse and a crucial feeder side for the senior Super Falcons squad.
While Nigeria awaits the outcome of the two-legged first-round encounter between Rwanda and Zimbabwe — with fixtures scheduled for 11 and 14 May — preparations are underway to ensure the Falconets maintain their impeccable qualifying record.
With just four African tickets available, the path to Poland will be fiercely contested, but Nigeria’s pedigree and experience offer a strong foundation as the journey begins.
