By Peace Udugba
Nigeria women’s national under-20 football team have officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after defeating Malawi 3-2 on aggregate in the final round of the African qualifiers.
The Falconets entered the second leg in Lilongwe, Malawi, with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State. Malawi fought back strongly and won the return leg 2-1, but Nigeria progressed because of their aggregate advantage.
Malawi’s Faith Chimzimu scored twice to put the Nigerian side under pressure, but substitute Precious Oscar scored a crucial goal in the 62nd minute to restore Nigeria’s aggregate lead and seal qualification.
The qualification means Nigeria will appear at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup for the 12th consecutive time, maintaining one of the strongest records in women’s youth football globally. The Falconets have participated in every edition since the tournament began in 2002 and previously reached the final in 2010 and 2014.
Before facing Malawi, the Falconets eliminated Rwanda and Senegal during the qualification series. They defeated Rwanda 5-0 on aggregate and later overcame Senegal 3-1 on aggregate to reach the final qualifying round.
The 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup will be hosted by Poland from September 5 to September 27, 2026, with 24 teams expected to participate. Nigeria will join other African representatives in the tournament as they aim to challenge for their first-ever title.
Source: Foot-Africa.com, Punch Newspapers.
