Falconets Eye Poland 2026 Ticket in Malawi Double-Header

Falconets Eye Poland 2026 Ticket in Malawi Double-Header

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, have stepped up preparations ahead of their first-leg clash against Malawi in the final round of qualifiers for the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup.

The encounter is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, as the Falconets aim to secure a place at the global tournament in Poland.

Head coach Moses Aduku expressed confidence in his team’s readiness, confirming that all invited players are in camp and fully focused on the games ahead.

“We have a full squad on ground and everyone is committed. At this stage, our focus is on tactical organisation and team cohesion. We are taking this very seriously, and I believe we will come out victorious,” Aduku said.

The team’s camp in Abuja has been marked by high morale and a clean bill of health, with no injury concerns reported. Aduku acknowledged the challenge of integrating players from different clubs within a limited timeframe but maintained optimism about building a cohesive and competitive side.

He also called on supporters to rally behind the team, drawing parallels with previous qualification rounds.

“We urge Nigerians to continue supporting us as they did against Rwanda and Senegal. We are confident that, after both legs against Malawi, Nigeria will secure qualification,” he added.

The Falconets booked their place in the final qualifying round with an impressive 3–1 aggregate victory over Senegal U20 Women's National Team, following a 1–0 home win and a 2–1 away triumph. Prior to that, they cruised past Rwanda U20 Women's National Team with a commanding 5–0 aggregate scoreline.

Malawi, meanwhile, advanced after a 6–2 aggregate victory over Guinea-Bissau U20 Women's National Team, highlighted by a dominant 5–1 win in Lilongwe after a 1–1 draw in the first leg.

The return fixture is set to take place in Lilongwe on May 9, where the tie will be decided.