Nigeria’s national U-20 national female team, the Falconets scored a crucial goal in the second half to achieve a 1-0 victory over Rwanda’s U-20 women’s national team during the first leg of their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier on Sunday afternoon.
This win marks a significant step for the Falconets as they aim for another appearance in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after a hard-fought match against Rwanda in Kigali.
The pivotal moment came in the 70th minute at the Kigali Pelé Stadium when young forward Janet Akekoromowei headed in a corner kick, securing an important away goal for Nigeria and giving them an advantage ahead of the return leg next weekend in Ibadan.
The first half was closely contested, with Rwanda appearing organized and eager to capitalize on their home advantage.
However, Nigeria created more opportunities, pressing high and forcing mistakes in midfield, although their final passes often fell short.
After halftime, the Falconets began to dominate, pushing Rwanda back into their own half.
The hosts relied on counter-attacks, but Nigeria’s defense remained solid and composed, limiting any significant threats.
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The breakthrough came from a set-piece, highlighting the Falconets’ superior physicality and aerial ability.
With Akekoromowei’s header, Nigeria took a deserved lead and an advantage in the first leg.
This result places Nigeria, who have been finalists twice at this level, in a strong position for the second-round qualifier.
The Falconets have consistently qualified for the U20 World Cup since its inception in 2002, and a 12th consecutive appearance now seems achievable.
For Rwanda, who are seeking their first-ever qualification for the global tournament, this defeat is a setback but not the end of their hopes.
They demonstrated discipline and resilience, especially in the first half, but will need to deliver an exceptional performance in Ibadan to overcome the deficit.
The second leg is scheduled for Saturday at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan. The aggregate winner will advance to the third round, where they will face either Senegal or Algeria.
