Nigeria secure victory against Rwanda in FIFA 2026 U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier

Nigerian U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over hosts Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup second round, first leg qualifying match at Kigali on Sunday.

Both teams fought hard on the pitch of the Kigali-Pele Stadium, located in the Nyamirambo district of the city, but there was no breakthrough for either side in a gritty first 45 minutes.

The #Falconets edged Rwanda 1–0 in the first leg of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier.

All eyes now on the return leg in IBADAN 💪🏽.#FIFAU20WWCQ | #SoarFalconets pic.twitter.com/3nMzU5wgSf

— NGSuper_Falcons (@NGSuper_Falcons) September 21, 2025

Olabiyi showed great composure and predatory to score

The decisive moment arrived in the 70th minute. Following a corner kick, a chaotic goalmouth scramble ensued, and forward Alaba Olabiyi showed great composure and predatory instinct to poke the ball into the back of the net.

The goal not only gave Nigeria the crucial away advantage but also served as a testament to the team’s persistence and determination.

Both teams will clash in the return at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan on Saturday. The Falconets’ delegation will return to Nigeria on Monday.

The victory is a significant one for coach Aduku, who was leading the team for the first time in an official competition.