U-20 WWC: Nigeria Pick First Point After Goalless Draw With China

Nigeria’s Falconets picked up their first point at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after playing out a goalless draw with China in their second Group F fixture.

The result provided a much-needed boost for the Nigerian side following their disappointing 2-0 defeat to Spain in their opening match of the tournament.

The Falconets entered the encounter under pressure to avoid another defeat, particularly after China opened its campaign with an emphatic 5-0 victory over New Caledonia.

Coach Moses Aduku’s side responded with a disciplined defensive performance, keeping China from finding the breakthrough throughout the encounter. Nigeria also remained organised in possession and worked to create opportunities, but neither side could produce the decisive finish.

The 0-0 result means Nigeria now have one point from two matches, while China moved to four points after their opening victory and the draw.

The Falconets will now turn their attention to their final Group F fixture against New Caledonia, knowing that a victory could strengthen their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.

Nigeria had entered the tournament with considerable expectations, having finished as runners-up at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup on two occasions. The team had also completed its preparations in Poland with encouraging friendly results, including a 1-0 victory over the host nation and a 1-1 draw against South Korea.

However, the opening defeat to Spain placed greater importance on the China encounter, with Aduku stressing before the match that his players needed to respond strongly.

The goalless draw therefore gives Nigeria an opportunity to revive their campaign in their final group game. The Falconets must now convert that defensive resilience into attacking efficiency when they face New Caledonia.

With the group still to be decided, Nigeria remain in contention and will need a positive result in their final match to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive.