Falconets Become Sole African Team in Knockout Stage After 10-1 Rout

Falconets Become Sole African Team in Knockout Stage After 10-1 Rout

Nigeria’s Falconets have qualified for the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland, becoming the only African team to reach the knockout stage following a commanding 10-1 victory over tournament debutants New Caledonia in Łódź on Sunday.

The emphatic win, combined with Spain’s 3-1 defeat of China PR in the other Group F fixture, saw Nigeria finish second in the group on four points, edging China on goal difference. Spain topped the group with nine points, while China advanced as one of the best third-placed teams.

The result marks a significant turnaround for Moses Aduku’s side, who entered their final group match under pressure after opening with a 2-0 loss to Spain and a goalless draw against China. Needing a decisive result, the Falconets led 4-0 at half-time before completing the rout after the interval.

Nigeria’s qualification leaves them as Africa’s sole remaining representative in the competition. Ghana, Benin Republic, and Tanzania all exited at the group stage.

The Falconets now face England in Bielsko-Biala on 17 September for a place in the quarter-finals.