Falconets Beat England 3-0, Reach World Cup Quarter-Finals

Nigeria’s Falconets have reached the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after defeating England 3-0 in their Round of 16 clash in Poland on Thursday.

Tosin Rafiu opened the scoring in the eighth minute before Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei doubled Nigeria’s advantage shortly after the restart. Mary Mamudu completed the victory in the 73rd minute as the Falconets secured a place in the last eight.

Nigeria made a bright start and took the lead when Rafiu capitalised on early pressure to finish clinically and put Moses Aduku’s side ahead.

England attempted to respond and were awarded a penalty in the first half following a Video Assistant Referee review. However, Falconets captain and goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma produced a crucial save to deny Rachel Maltby and preserve Nigeria’s advantage.

The Falconets went into the interval leading 1-0.

Nigeria doubled its lead just two minutes into the second half when Akekoromowei found the net, putting the young Nigerians firmly in control.

England tried to reduce the deficit, but Nigeria’s defence remained organised while the midfield limited the English side’s opportunities.

Mamudu then put the result beyond doubt in the 73rd minute, scoring Nigeria’s third goal and completing an impressive knockout-stage performance.

The victory sends the Falconets into the quarter-finals, where they will face either hosts Poland or Colombia. The quarter-final is scheduled for Sunday, September 20, in Lodz.

Nigeria reached the knockout stage after finishing second in Group F with four points. The Falconets opened their campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Spain before playing a goalless draw against China.

They responded emphatically in their final group match, defeating New Caledonia 10-1 to secure qualification for the Round of 16.

The win over England means Nigeria have now scored 13 goals in their last two matches, having failed to score in their opening two group games.

The result also keeps Nigeria’s campaign alive after a difficult group-stage start and gives the squad another opportunity to challenge for a place in the semi-finals at the tournament.

Uzoma’s penalty save, combined with goals from Rafiu, Akekoromowei and Mamudu, proved decisive as Nigeria maintained a clean sheet and advanced to the final eight.