U-20 WWC qualifiers: Rwanda warn Nigeria’s Falconets – “We will not be intimidated”

Rwanda’s U20 women’s national team has begun full preparations in Kigali ahead of their 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying showdown with Nigeria’s Falconets, Soccernet.ng reports.

The home side, made up largely of domestic talents, opened camp at the weekend, with their Europe-based stars expected to arrive in the coming days.

Head coach Cassa André Mbungo has charged his players to embrace the challenge against one of Africa’s strongest youth teams, insisting that the Wasps will not be overawed.

“Be fearless, be focused, obey the rhythm of tactics,” Mbungo told his squad.

“We respect Nigeria, but we will not be intimidated. If we work hard and stick to the plan, we can make our nation proud.”

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Training sessions have been designed to emphasize fitness, discipline, and tactical organisation as Rwanda seek an upset in the two-legged tie.

The first leg is scheduled for Sunday, 21 September, at the Kigali Pele Stadium, before the return fixture in Ibadan on 27 September. The aggregate winner will move one step closer to securing a place at the 2026 World Cup in Mexico.

The young Wasps have also received backing from the Rwanda Football Federation, with officials urging fans to come out in numbers to create a charged atmosphere at home.

Rwanda defeated Zimbabwe by a 2-1 aggregare scoreline in the first round of the qualifiers to set up this date with Nigeria. 

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Falconets will fly into Kigali on Thursday to continue their final build-up.

The Nigerian side boasts an unrivalled pedigree in youth women’s football, having qualified for every edition of the U20 World Cup and reached the final twice. With perennial rivals Germany missing out this time, the Falconets enter this qualifying campaign as one of the tournament favourites.

CAF has confirmed match officials for the first leg, with Sierra Leone’s Aminata Fullah named referee, assisted by compatriots Hannah Lydia Moses and Fatmata Mansaray, while Liberia’s Love Tuu Wehyee will serve as the fourth official.

Back home, the Oyo State Government has thrown its weight behind the Falconets, approving ₦110 million to cover camping and match hosting costs in Ibadan. Commissioner Mojeed Mogbonjubola explained that the package will take care of accommodation, feeding, transport, medicals, and logistics while boosting sports tourism in the state.

This clash will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Nigeria and Rwanda at this level.