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Nigeria’s Falconets have reached the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after defeating England 3-0 in their Round of 16 clash on Thursday.
Tosin Rafiu, Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei and Mary Mamudu scored as Nigeria secured a convincing win at Stadion Miejski in Bielsko-Biała.
The Falconets made a fast start and took the lead in the eighth minute.
Rafiu finished a fine move to put Nigeria ahead before England responded with increased pressure.
England came close to an equaliser, but Nigeria goalkeeper and captain Christiana Uzoma produced two key saves.
She first denied Princess Ademiluyi before stopping Rachel Maltby’s penalty and pushing the ball onto the crossbar.
Nigeria went into half-time with a 1-0 lead.
Falconets seal victory
Nigeria doubled their advantage only two minutes into the second half.
Akekoromowei sent a left-footed volley into the net to make it 2-0.
England tried to reduce the deficit, but the Falconets remained dangerous and continued to create chances.
Mamudu then scored in the 73rd minute to complete the 3-0 victory.
The result sends Moses Aduku’s side into the last eight of the competition.
Nigeria had earlier finished second in Group F with four points.
The Falconets lost 2-0 to Spain in their opening match and drew 0-0 with China before producing a 10-1 win over New Caledonia in their final group game.
The win over England means Nigeria have scored 13 goals in their last two matches after failing to score in their first two group fixtures.
Nigeria to face Colombia
The Falconets will face Colombia in the quarter-finals on Sunday, September 20, after the South Americans defeated hosts Poland to progress. The match will be played in Łódź.
Nigeria are two-time runners-up at the U-20 Women’s World Cup and will continue their campaign for a first title against Colombia.
