FIFA U-20 WWC: Nigeria’s Falconets hold China to goalless draw

Nigeria’s Falconets played out a goalless draw with China PR in their second Group F match at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland on Thursday.

The encounter, played at the Arena Sosnowiec, leaves Nigeria with one point from two matches and facing a must-win final group game against New Caledonia on Sunday.

The Falconets started brightly, with Janet Akekoromowei creating Nigeria’s first clear opportunity in the 17th minute.

Nigeria grew into the contest as the first half progressed, with Kafayat Mafisere winning a corner in the 33rd minute before Akekoromowei came close again in the 38th minute and during added time.

China also threatened before the interval, with Huang Jiaxin, Zhou Xinyi and Song Lijuan testing the Nigerian defence.

Goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma and the Falconets’ backline stood firm, ensuring the teams went into the break level.

China introduced Chen Ruilin for Xiao Yafei at the start of the second half as they sought to increase the pressure.

Chen, Xue Sifan and Huang all registered attempts, but Nigeria also created opportunities of their own.

Precious Oscar went close in the 54th minute, while Mafisere had efforts in the 56th and 60th minutes. Queen Joseph also threatened in the 58th minute.

Nigeria appeared to have been handed a major opportunity to break the deadlock in the 74th minute when they were awarded a penalty.

However, the decision was overturned following a VAR review, and neither side could find a winning goal before the final whistle.

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The draw leaves Spain top of Group F with six points, followed by China on four points. Nigeria are third with one point, while New Caledonia remain bottom without a point.

The Falconets can still finish second in the group or qualify for the Round of 16 as one of the four best third-placed teams.

Nigeria will face New Caledonia in their final group match on Sunday, 13 September, in Łódź. Kick-off is scheduled for 2 p.m. Nigerian time.

A victory would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s chances of progressing to the knockout stage.

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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