Nigeria U20 women’s coach Moses Aduku has admitted his disappointment after the Falconets suffered a 2-0 defeat to Spain in their opening Group F match at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
The reigning European champions controlled key moments of the game and scored once in each half. Marisa Garcia opened the scoring before Alba Cerrato added Spain’s second goal to secure all three points.
The result gave Nigeria a difficult start to the tournament. However, Aduku remains confident that the Falconets can recover and reach the knockout stage in Poland.
Speaking to FIFA.com after the match, Aduku openly criticised his team’s display. He felt Nigeria failed to produce the level of performance needed against a strong Spanish side.
“We did not come to the party today; we did not play.
But all the same, we have two more games to play; we will get it right. Of course, we are going to go through [to the knockout rounds].
“I am confident. We did not play today.”
Falconets Turn Focus to China PR
Despite the setback, Aduku believes the Falconets still have enough time to correct their mistakes. Nigeria have two more Group F matches and will now look to respond quickly.
The Falconets will face China PR in their second group game on Thursday, September 10. The match presents Nigeria with an immediate chance to put the Spain defeat behind them.
Nigeria must improve their attacking threat and show greater control in possession. They also need to take their chances when opportunities arrive.
Spain’s two goals highlighted the difference between the teams in the opening game. Therefore, Aduku will expect a stronger response when the Falconets return to action.
The defeat leaves Nigeria with work to do in Group F. Nevertheless, the coach remains confident that his team can recover, qualify for the knockout rounds and keep their FIFA U 20 Women’s World Cup campaign alive.
