Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, kicked off preparations for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup with a dominant 10-0 victory over Abuja-based Bodyline FC in a friendly match, as head coach Moses Aduku declared the team’s ambition to win the title in Poland.
Key Highlights:
- Falconets defeat Bodyline FC 10-0 in World Cup warm-up match.
- Coach Moses Aduku targets Nigeria’s first FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup title.
- Team focusing on fitness, mentality and tactical improvement.
- Falconets to face Spain, China and New Caledonia in Group F.
- Captain Joy Igbokwe expresses confidence in Nigeria’s title chances.
The emphatic victory marked the Falconets’ first preparatory fixture ahead of the tournament, with the Nigerian side displaying attacking flair, tactical discipline and defensive solidity throughout the one-sided contest.
Speaking after the match on Wednesday, head coach Moses Aduku praised his players for an encouraging performance but stressed that the team must continue improving before the global championship.
“It was our first friendly match and it was very impressive. However, there are still areas the team needs to work on. We must function perfectly as a unit, both offensively and defensively. While we are working hard here, other teams are also preparing,” Aduku said.
The coach identified winning mentality and peak physical fitness as the team’s major priorities ahead of the competition.
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“First and foremost is mentality. We want to instill a winning mentality in the players. At the same time, our fitness level must be 100 per cent and beyond because that is one of the major strengths we want to take into the World Cup,” he added.
Looking ahead to the tournament, Aduku acknowledged the challenge awaiting his side but remained optimistic about Nigeria’s chances of making history.
“Every match will be tough, but we are leaving no stone unturned. Our first game against Spain will be difficult, but I believe we can make a statement. Nigerians should pray for us and expect this team to bring back the trophy.”
He also disclosed that nearly the entire squad had reported to camp, with only one or two players yet to join the team.
Despite the heavy defeat, Bodyline FC coach James Phanuel described the encounter as a valuable learning experience for his predominantly grassroots squad.
“Playing against the national team is never easy. Most of my players are still developing at the grassroots level and lack that experience,” he said.
Phanuel attributed the defeat to poor fitness levels and inadequate communication, adding that his team would continue to improve for future opportunities.
Falconets captain Joy Igbokwe described the convincing victory as an ideal start to Nigeria’s World Cup preparations.
“It’s a privilege for every one of us to represent Nigeria. This win is just the beginning of our journey towards the World Cup. We are taking every aspect of our preparation seriously.”
She expressed confidence that the Falconets possess the quality to win the championship, noting that the team’s biggest concern is staying injury-free throughout the build-up to the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup will be held in Poland from September 5 to 27, with Nigeria drawn in Group F alongside Spain, China and New Caledonia. The Falconets will open their campaign against Spain on September 7, face China on September 10, and conclude the group stage against New Caledonia on September 13.
The expanded 24-team competition will be hosted in Łódź, Katowice, Sosnowiec and Bielsko-Biała, where the Falconets will be aiming to secure Nigeria’s maiden FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup title.
