FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup: Nigeria’s Falconets carry Africa’s last hopes into England showdown

Nigeria's Falconets, Africa's remaining team in the ongoing FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland, will face England in the Round of 16 on Thursday. The Falconets, led by Moses Aduku, have secured their spot after defeating New Caledonia 10-1 in their final Group F match. They finished second in their group with four points from three games, behind Brazil and tied with Canada, with a goal difference and goals scored of four and three respectively.

The last time England and Nigeria met was in 2014, where the Falconets won 2-1, thanks to goals from Loveth Ayila and Asisat Oshoala.

Respected journalist Femi Fabunmi, from Lagos, believes the Falconets have a chance to beat England and advance to the quarter-finals. He emphasizes that the team has shown improvement since their weak performance against Spain in the group stage. However, Fabunmi stresses the need for further improvements in goalkeeping and defense to face the Young Lionesses effectively. If these enhancements are made, Fabunmi predicts the Falconets will reach the quarter-finals.