U20 WWC (Q): Aduku promises attacking approach as Falconets take lead to Malawi

Falconets head coach Moses Aduku has confirmed that his side will not sit back and defend in the second leg of their final qualifying round for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, despite securing a 2-0 lead in the first leg.

Aduku’s side defeated Malawi 2-0 in Ikenne, following an own goal in the first minute of the second half and a clinical strike from Kindness Ifeanyi.

Coach Aduku demands more clinical finishing

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Aduku expressed mixed feelings, noting that his players missed several opportunities that could have provided a greater margin heading into the return leg.

“We thank God for the win. In the first half, we were not too good in terms of coordination, and secondly, opportunities were missed; but thank God we came into the second half and scored the goals.

But still, I’m not satisfied with the total performance because I believe we can do more, though I can’t say I’m disappointed in my attackers because they scored two goals. In the game of football, you can get 100 chances and not convert any.”

The gaffer further emphasised that despite playing away from home, his players will take the game to the Malawian side and match them stride for stride.

“I know when we get to Malawi, they will come out to play; they were trying to play defensively in the first half, most especially. They will come out to play, and we will have opportunities, and I give you my word, we will score the first goal (in Malawi).

We will be tactical in our approach. We are two goals up and in Malawi we will not just go defensive; we will take the game to them and see if we can get a goal, and I know my girls can do that.”

The second leg will be played this Saturday at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe. The Falconets aim to maintain their perfect World Cup qualification record, while Malawi continues their quest for a debut appearance.