Nigeria’s Falconets face tough Australia and Mexico tests ahead of U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia

Nigeria's U-20 women’s football team will play two crucial friendly matches against Australia and Mexico as part of their final preparations for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, which kicks off on August 31, Soccernet.ng reports.

According to a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation the Falconets, under the guidance of coach Christopher Danjuma, will face Australia on Friday, August 23, before clashing with Mexico three days later.

Upon their arrival in Bogotá, Colombia’s capital, on Sunday evening, the Falconets were warmly welcomed with a vibrant reception.

The celebration featured traditional dancers, flag-waving supporters, and members of the Local Organising Committee for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Colombia 2024.

The two-time silver medallists were met with enthusiasm as they prepare for what promises to be a challenging tournament.

The Falconets engaged in a light training session on Monday, allowing the players to recover from their long journey. On Tuesday, the team ramped up their training as they aim to mount a serious challenge for the trophy in the 23-day tournament.

Mexico, one of Nigeria's upcoming opponents, is participating in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup for the 10th time, having missed only one previous tournament.

In contrast, Nigeria is one of only four nations — alongside the USA, Brazil, and Germany — to have qualified for every edition of the competition since its inception in 2002.

This year’s tournament, upgraded to feature 24 nations, includes several debutants, such as Austria, Chile, and Cameroon.

The competition will run from August 31 to September 22, with Nigeria placed in Group D, alongside Germany, the Korea Republic, and Venezuela.