The road to Poland 2026 has reached a defining moment for Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, and Head Coach Moses Aduku believes his Falconets are mentally and tactically ready to overcome Senegal in Thies.
Nigeria will face the hosts in the second leg of their FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup third-round qualifier at the Stade Lat Dior on Saturday evening. Kick-off is scheduled for 5pm Senegal time and 6pm Nigeria time, with a place in the final round of the African qualifiers at stake.
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However, the Falconets will travel to Dakar without one of their most dangerous attacking weapons.
Janet Akekoromowei Ruled Out With Injury
Top striker Janet Akekoromowei sustained an injury during the first half of the first leg in Abeokuta last weekend. The forward, who has been a consistent attacking outlet for the team, was forced off early and has now been left out of the squad travelling to Senegal.
Her absence is a major talking point heading into the decisive fixture. Akekoromowei’s movement, pace, and finishing ability have often given Nigeria an edge in tight matches. Losing her at this stage of the qualifiers is far from ideal.
But Moses Aduku remains calm and confident.
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Aduku Backs His Players to Rise
Speaking ahead of the trip to Dakar, the Falconets coach emphasized that his team has learned key lessons from the first leg and is ready to apply them in Senegal.
“We will overcome because we have reviewed the match and taken a lot of lessons on board,” Aduku assured.
The first leg in Abeokuta was far from straightforward. Nigeria struggled in the opening half, facing a disciplined and energetic Senegalese side that came prepared to frustrate the Falconets. However, the second half told a different story.
“I commend the girls for regrouping after a tough first half, adjusting tactics, and showing character in the second half,” Aduku said.
Nigeria created several chances after the break and could have widened the margin further.
“We could have won by more goals because we created a number of opportunities in that second period.”
That resilience and ability to adjust mid-game is something the Falconets will need again in Thies.
Defend With Discipline, Attack With Purpose
Playing away in Senegal presents a different kind of challenge. Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal’s third-largest city located about 70 kilometres from Dakar, is expected to be packed with home supporters eager to inspire their team.
Aduku understands that game management will be crucial.
“In Senegal, we must defend resolutely and attack with purpose. We will play with focus and determination.”
The Falconets have historically thrived under pressure in continental qualifiers. From previous U20 World Cup campaigns to intense away fixtures across Africa, Nigeria’s pedigree at this level is well documented.
This current group now has the opportunity to add its own chapter.
CAF Appoints Moroccan Officials
The Confederation of African Football has appointed a team of Moroccan officials to handle the decisive encounter.
Zakia El Grini will serve as the centre referee. She will be assisted by Karima Khadiri as Assistant Referee One and Ihsane Ennouajeli Nouajli as Assistant Referee Two. Zoulaikha Harmasse will act as the fourth official.
Oumou Souleymane Kane from Mauritania has been appointed as match commissioner, while Kenya’s Alice Kimani will serve as referee assessor.
The stakes are high. The winner on aggregate will advance to the final round of the African qualifiers, moving one step closer to the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup scheduled to take place in Poland in September 2026.
A Test of Character for the Falconets
Beyond tactics and officiating appointments, this fixture is about mentality.
The Falconets represent one of Nigeria’s most successful youth football programmes, consistently producing players who graduate into the Super Falcons and go on to shine internationally. Every qualifier carries the weight of expectation.
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Without Akekoromowei, others must step up. It is an opportunity for new heroes to emerge.
For Moses Aduku and his young squad, Saturday’s clash in Thies is not just another away game. It is a test of character, discipline, and belief.
If they defend with resolve and attack with clarity as promised, Poland 2026 will move one step closer to reality.
