Falconets lose World Cup opener to Spain
Nigeria’s Falconets began their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign with a 2-0 loss to Spain. Read about the Falconets World Cup opener. Read More: https://punchng.com/falconets-lose-world-cup-opener-to-spain/
Nigeria's Falconets suffered a 2-0 defeat to former champions Spain in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Poland. Spain, who won the competition in 2022, took the lead in the 13th minute through Marisa García. Nigeria struggled to create clear chances in the first half and only managed a shot on target in the 37th minute, but Spain's goalkeeper Laia López kept out their efforts.
D'Tigress' lead was extended in the 73rd minute when Alba Cerrato capitalized on a poor clearance, making it 2-0. Nigeria finished the match without a point, while China PR topped the Group F with a 5-0 win over New Caledonia earlier in the day. The Falconets will next face China on Thursday, with a positive result crucial for their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
Despite the setback, Nigeria's experience in the competition could still see them progress, as the top two teams from each group along with the four best third-placed sides advance to the round of 16.
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