Falconets Edge Rwanda in World Cup Qualifier

Nigeria’s Falconets took a significant step toward qualifying for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Rwanda in their first-leg second-round qualifier in Kigali on Sunday.

The two-time World Cup finalists had to wait until the second half to break the deadlock, after an evenly contested opening 45 minutes in which Rwanda focused on defensive solidity to frustrate their visitors.

Midfielder Janet Akekoromowei proved the difference-maker in the 70th minute, rising highest to head home from a corner kick and hand Nigeria the crucial advantage.

Rwanda pressed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but the Falconets’ backline held firm to preserve their lead and claim an away win.

The return leg is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, where the Falconets will look to finish the job in front of home fans.

The aggregate winner of the tie will advance to the third round of the qualifiers to face either Senegal or Algeria as the race to Poland 2026 intensifies.