Falconets set for 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup opener against Korea Republic

Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, are poised to kick off their campaign at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, with their opening match against the Korea Republic scheduled for Monday, September 2, at 12 AM Nigerian time. The match will take place at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogota.

Under the leadership of head coach Chris Danjuma, the Falconets are fully prepared for the challenges ahead as they seek to secure their first-ever title in this prestigious tournament. Speaking ahead of the opening game, Coach Danjuma expressed confidence in his team’s preparations.

“We’re focusing on our tactics and techniques to get it right against Korea, our first assignment,” Danjuma said. “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 are expected to field a strong starting lineup, with Faith Omilana likely to start in goal, supported by a solid defensive line featuring Comfort Folorunsho, Shukurat Oladipo, Rofiat Imuran, and Jumoke Alani. In midfield, Oluchi Ohaegbulam is expected to play a pivotal role, alongside Aminat Omowunmi Bello, Yina Adoo, Chioma Olise, and Olushola Shobowale. The team’s attacking force is anticipated to include Janet Akekoromowei, Opeyemi Ajakaye, Flourish Sabastine, and Chiamaka Okwuchukwu.

The Falconets have a proud history in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, having participated in every edition since their debut in 2002 when the competition was still known as the U-19 Women’s World Championship. Nigeria reached the finals twice, in 2010 and 2014, and also made it to the semi-finals in 2012. As they head into the 2024 tournament, the Falconets are determined to build on this legacy and push for their first-ever World Cup title.

Nigeria has been drawn into a challenging Group D, where they will face formidable opponents, including the Korea Republic, three-time champions Germany, and Venezuela. Following their opening match against Korea, the Falconets will take on Germany on Wednesday, September 4, before concluding the group stage with a clash against Venezuela on Saturday, September 7, at the Estadio Pascual Guerrero in Cali.

The Falconets secured their place in Colombia after a rigorous qualification campaign, overcoming Tanzania and Burundi in the later stages. Now, as the tournament begins, the team is focused on making a deep run and demonstrating their talent on the global stage.

The 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup kicked off on Saturday, August 31st, with Cameroon earning a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Mexico. The Mexicans led 2-0 at halftime, but a second-half brace from Naomi Eto secured a point for the Central Africans. In another thrilling encounter, France and Canada played out a 3-3 draw.

On Sunday, September 1st, host nation Colombia started their campaign with an impressive 2-0 victory over Australia, while Brazil delivered a dominant performance, defeating Fiji 9-0.