Senegal have unveiled their squad and stepped up preparations ahead of Saturday’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifying clash against Nigeria’s Falconets, as both sides get set for the first leg of their third round encounter in Abeokuta.
The Senegalese Football Federation confirmed the list on Wednesday, with head coach Mbayang Thiam selecting a balanced squad made up largely of players from domestic academies and clubs, complemented by a small number of foreign based talents. Leading the group is 2025 CAF Young Player of the Year finalist Adji Nidaiye of Bourges 18, who is expected to play a key role in the tie.
Goalkeeping duties will be handled by Yakhara Diagne of AS Bambey and Fatou Nidaiye Camara of Lycee Ameth Fall, while the defensive unit includes Aissatou Fall, Adama Siga Diouf and Ndeye Haby Barro. In midfield, Mbene Diop, Mariama Faty and Mame Diarra Diallo provide energy and control, with the attacking responsibilities resting on the shoulders of Marie Louise Sarr, Khadija Badio and Aissatou Sagna.
The Lionesses of Teranga arrived in Nigeria on Tuesday night, landing in Lagos before making the road trip to Abeokuta. They held their first training session on Wednesday evening at the African Church Grammar School as preparations intensify for the crucial fixture.
Saturday’s match represents the first leg of the penultimate qualifying round for the Poland 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. The winner on aggregate will advance to face either Guinea Bissau or Malawi in the final round, with a place at the global tournament at stake.
CAF has appointed Ugandan referee Diana Murungi to officiate the encounter. She will be assisted by Immaculate Ongiera and Elizabeth Nassolo, also from Uganda, while Burundi’s Suavis Iratunga will act as fourth official. Ghana’s Christine Ziga will serve as match commissioner, with Berthe Minka of Gabon named as referee assessor.
