Nigeria’s Falconets battled China PR to a hard-fought 0-0 draw in their second Group F match at the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland on Thursday.
The encounter, played at Arena Sosnowiec, saw both teams create chances but remain unable to break the deadlock as goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma and the Nigerian defence stood firm.
Coach Moses Aduku’s side started brightly, with Janet Akekoromowei producing Nigeria’s first clear opportunity in the 17th minute.
The Falconets gradually gained control, with Kafayat Mafisere winning a corner in the 33rd minute before Akekoromowei went close again in the 38th minute and during first-half stoppage time.
China also threatened before the interval, with Huang Jiaxin, Zhou Xinyi and Song Lijuan testing the Nigerian defence, while Xue Sifan delivered two dangerous corners.
Uzoma remained alert between the posts, helping the Falconets keep the scores level at the break.
China introduced Chen Ruilin at the start of the second half in place of Xiao Yafei, and the change gave the Asian side additional attacking impetus.
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The Falconets, however, responded strongly, with Precious Oscar, Mafisere and Queen Joseph all coming close to breaking the deadlock.
Nigeria appeared to have been handed a major opportunity in the 74th minute when the referee awarded a penalty. However, the decision was overturned following a VAR review.
Both teams continued to push for a winner, but neither could find the decisive goal before the final whistle.
The draw leaves the Falconets with one point from their opening two Group F matches, making their final group fixture crucial.
Aduku’s team will face New Caledonia in Łódź on Sunday, September 13, with qualification for the knockout stage at stake.
