FIFA U-20 WWC: Nigeria’s Falconets begin campaign with defeat to Spain

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

The Falconets, who had arrived in Poland following an extensive period of preparation, were unable to find a way past the former world champions at the Stadion Sosnowiec.

Spain took the lead in the 13th minute through Marisa García, putting Nigeria on the back foot early in the encounter.

The Falconets attempted to respond but struggled to break down a well-organised Spanish defence as the European side maintained its advantage into the second half.

Spain eventually doubled their lead in the 73rd minute when Alba Cerrato found the net to put the result beyond Nigeria’s reach.

The defeat leaves Nigeria needing a strong response in their next Group F fixture against China on Wednesday, 10 September.

Head coach Moses Aduku had earlier described the opening encounter against Spain as a “Cup final” and challenged his players to approach the match with maximum commitment.

“We are looking forward to the match against Spain with high expectations. We are ready and set to go. Spain is a good side, no doubt, but we will approach the game like a Cup final because we want to win,” Aduku said.

Nigeria’s next two group matches against China and New Caledonia will now take on greater importance as the Falconets seek to recover from their opening-day setback.

The Falconets are among the most successful African teams in the history of the competition, having finished runners-up in 2010 and 2014.

Spain, meanwhile, are former champions, having won the 2022 edition and finished runners-up in 2018.

Nigeria will face China on Wednesday as they look to revive their hopes of progressing from Group F.

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Tunde Eludini is a graduate of the Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, Nigeria where he studied International Relations. He is a Senior Correspondent coordinating the sports section for PREMIUM TIMES. Twitter: @tundeyeludini