Falconets lose World Cup opener to Spain

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

Spain, who won the competition in 2022, controlled much of the encounter at the Arena Sosnowiec and took the lead in the 13th minute through Marisa García.

The goal came after Noemí Bejarano worked her way down the flank before sending a low ball into the box, with García finishing to put Spain ahead.

Nigeria struggled to create clear chances in the first half and had to wait until the 37th minute for their first attempt, with Kafayat Mafisere shooting wide from distance.

The Falconets returned from the break with greater attacking intent, with Precious Oscar and Victory Lucky introduced as Nigeria sought an equaliser.

However, Spain remained dangerous, and goalkeeper Laia López kept out Nigeria’s attempts as the European side maintained its advantage.

Spain eventually doubled their lead in the 73rd minute when Alba Cerrato capitalised on a poor clearance before beating Christiana Uzoma to make it 2-0.

The defeat leaves Nigeria without a point after the opening round of Group F matches, with China PR moving to the top after a 5-0 victory over New Caledonia earlier on Monday.

The Falconets will face China on Thursday, knowing a positive result will be important to their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

Nigeria remain capable of progressing despite the setback, with the top two teams in each of the six groups and the four best third-placed sides advancing to the round of 16.

The Falconets are among the most experienced teams in the competition, having finished runners-up in 2010 and 2014 and reached the knockout stage in eight of their previous nine appearances before this year’s tournament.

The 2026 tournament is being staged in Poland from September 5 to 27, with 24 teams competing across six groups.