Nigeria’s Falconets have returned to camp in Abuja as they step up preparations for a decisive moment in their journey to the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Poland, Soccernet.ng reports.
Players and officials began arriving on Monday, with full training sessions starting the following day. The early days in camp have focused on fitness, teamwork, and tactical discipline, as the coaching crew works to get the squad into top shape ahead of their final qualifying tie.
Head coach Moses Aduku addressed the players during their first session, stressing the need for focus and commitment. He reminded them that qualification will not come easy, especially against a determined Malawi side.
Nigeria will face Malawi in a two-legged tie, with the first match set to be played at home on 2 May, before the return leg a week later. The Falconets defeated a stubborn Senegal side over two legs while Malawi reached this stage after overcoming Guinea-Bissau, and they are expected to provide a stern test.
The mood in camp, however, is positive. The players are confident and understand what is at stake, a place at the global tournament in Poland later this year.
Falconets’ proud history and Poland 2026 picture
Nigeria’s Falconets are one of the most consistent sides in the history of the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup.
Since the competition began in 2002, Nigeria have qualified for every single edition. That remarkable record puts them alongside global heavyweights like United States, Germany, and Brazil as ever-present teams.
Their best performances came in 2010 and 2014, when they finished as runners-up, losing both finals to Germany. They have also reached the semi-finals and quarter-finals several times, showing their consistency at the highest level of youth football.
One of the standout moments in their history came in 2014, when Asisat Oshoala won both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball, a rare achievement that highlighted Nigeria’s ability to produce world-class talent.
More recently, the Falconets reached the Round of 16 at the 2024 tournament before losing narrowly to Japan. Now, they are just one step away from returning to the global stage.
The 2026 tournament, to be held in Poland from September, will feature 24 teams. So far, 16 countries have already secured qualification. These include host nation Poland, as well as European sides like Spain, England, and France. From North and Central America, the United States, Mexico, and Canada have qualified, while South America will be represented by Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia, among others.
Two teams from Oceania, New Zealand and New Caledonia, have also booked their places.
The remaining eight slots will be filled by teams from Africa and Asia. Africa will have four representatives, meaning Nigeria must win their final qualifying tie to secure their place.
