Falconets Set to Face Spain and China in U-20 Women’s World Cup Group Stage

By Enitan Abdultawab

Nigeria’s U‑20 women’s national team, the Falconets, were placed in Group F alongside Spain, China PR and New Caledonia for the 2026 FIFA U‑20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.

The draw took place on Thursday in Łódź, a host city, setting the group‑stage lineup for Nigeria ahead of the tournament, which runs from 5 to 27 September.

As one of Africa’s most successful U‑20 women’s teams, the Falconets will now gear up for a challenging group stage against European power Spain, Asian side China PR, and Oceania’s New Caledonia.

Nigeria earned a berth through a strong qualifying run and aims to make a powerful statement on the world stage.

The Falconets are among the most consistent teams in U‑20 Women’s World Cup history, having reached the final twice and consistently progressing to knockout rounds.

Twenty‑four teams were divided into six groups, with matches scheduled in Bielsko‑Biała, Katowice, Łódź and Sosnowiec.

Group A contains Argentina, Mexico, Poland and Benin Republic; Group B pairs defending champions Brazil and England with Tanzania and Canada.

Group C includes France, Korea Republic, Ecuador and Ghana; Group D features the United States, Japan, Italy and New Zealand.

Group E is made up of Korea DPR, Portugal, Costa Rica and Colombia.

The 2026 tournament is expected to highlight some of the brightest young talents in women’s football, and Nigeria hopes to deliver another memorable performance.

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