Nigeria’s U-20 women’s team, the Falconets, are ready to begin their quest for glory at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, Soccernet.ng reports.
The team, under the guidance of head coach Chris Danjuma, will face a tough opening match against the Korea Republic on Monday, September 2, at 12 AM (Nigerian time), at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota.
“We’re focusing on our tactics and techniques to get it right against Korea, our first assignment,” said Coach Danjuma.
“Once we succeed against them, we’ll set our sights on Germany. I’m pleased to report that we have no injuries in camp, and the girls are ready to make Nigeria proud.”
The Falconets’ starting lineup is anticipated to include Faith Omilana in goal, with a defensive line featuring Comfort Folorunsho, Shukurat Oladipo, Rofiat Imuran, and Jumoke Alani.
Oluchi Ohaegbulam is expected to command the midfield, supported by Aminat Omowunmi Bello, Yina Adoo, Chioma Olise, and Olushola Shobowale.
The attacking responsibilities will likely fall on the shoulders of Janet Akekoromowei, Opeyemi Ajakaye, Flourish Sabastine, and Chiamaka Okwuchukwu.
Nigeria’s History in the Tournament
The Falconets have been a consistent force in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup since their debut in 2002 when the competition was still a U-19 Championship.
Over the years, Nigeria reached the finals twice, in 2010 and 2014, and made it to the semi-finals in 2012.
As they head into the 2024 tournament, they are determined to build on this strong tradition and push for their first-ever title.
Tough Group D Challenges Await
Nigeria’s Falconets have been drawn into Group D, where they will face the Korea Republic, three-time champions Germany, and Venezuela.
The Falconets will play their second group match against Germany on Wednesday, September 4, and will conclude the group stage with a clash against Venezuela on Saturday, September 7, at the Estadio Pascual Guerrero in Cali.
The team secured their spot in Colombia after a challenging qualification journey, overcoming Tanzania and Burundi in the later stages.
Now, with the tournament set to begin, the Falconets are focused on making a deep run and showcasing their talent on the global stage.
Tournament Results
The FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup kicked off on Saturday, August 31st, with Cameroon playing out a 2-2 draw with Mexico.
The Mexicans took a two-goal lead into halftime but Naomi Eto grabbed a second-half brace to earn a share of the spoils for the Central Africans.
Later in the day, France and Canada treated fans to an even more thrilling encounter as the two countries fought to a 3-3 standstill.
Early on Sunday, September 1st, hosts Colombia started their campaign on an excellent note with a fine 2-0 win over Australia while Brazil took Fiji to the cleaners with a sweeping 9-0 triumph.
