World Cup Qualifier: Falconets coach speaks ahead of Rwanda clash

Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, are set to begin their journey in the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers with a crucial second-round tie against Rwanda, and head coach Moses Adukwu insists his team is fully primed for the challenge.

The two-legged second-round encounter will see Nigeria play away in Kigali on 21 September, before hosting the return leg in Ibadan on 27 September, as the Falconets seek to secure an early advantage in their quest for another World Cup appearance, this time in Poland.

“Preparation has been tough, but we’re ready”

Reflecting on the team’s buildup, Aduku revealed that the Falconets have gone through an intensive five-week camp to sharpen their conditioning, techniques, and tactics.

“Well, first and foremost, I want to thank God for the preparation. Five weeks plus, it has been tough,” Aduku told reporters.

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“You know, from the beginning, 35 players and now 19. You know, it has not been easy, but honestly, I must give it to the guys. They went through conditioning, techniques, tactics, you know, and right now we’re on the same page. So it’s time for execution, and I believe that the girls will do us proud. So preparation is good.”

The Falconets, two-time FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup runners-up, remain one of the most consistent youth sides in global football, and Adukwu is confident this generation can uphold that tradition.

Backing from the Federation

The coach also expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for giving the team an extended camp to properly prepare for the assignment.

“I want to also appreciate the leadership of the NFF for giving us this platform to stay for six weeks before this game. So honestly, it has been good. It has been awesome. Players from different clubs, but right now we are one unit. So we are good to go.”

Eyes on Rwanda

Nigeria’s opponents, Rwanda, are riding on confidence after edging out Zimbabwe in the previous round, but Adukwu is determined to kill the tie early in Kigali.

READ ALSO: 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers: Falconets resume camping for Rwanda

“Yeah, honestly, we want to do something. We want to see how we can see that the second leg, you know, it’s not going to be easy, but that’s what we are planning. To go all out in Rwanda to conclude the game. But I know they are not a pushover.

“They won their last game against Zimbabwe. So therefore, we know they are a good side. We’ve also watched them. But all the same, I’m telling the fans to pray for us, and also we’ll come back with results.”

The Falconets’ mission

Nigeria has never missed a FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup since the competition’s inception in 2002, and Adukwu knows the weight of expectation that comes with leading the Falconets. With the likes of Spain, Germany, and Japan dominating at this level globally, Nigeria’s quest is not just about qualification but proving the nation can push for a maiden world title.

The journey begins in Kigali. For Adukwu and his Falconets, the target is clear: finish the job away, return home to Ibadan with momentum, and continue the long-standing tradition of excellence on the world stage.