Nigeria’s U20 women’s side, the Falconets, have voiced strong belief in their preparation as they gear up for Saturday’s third-round, first-leg qualifier against Senegal in the race toward the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
Speaking during Friday evening’s pre-match briefing, Head Coach Moses Aduku joined team captain Joy Igbokwe in outlining the squad’s condition, mentality, and overall readiness ahead of the crucial two-legged encounter that will shape their qualification hopes.
Aduku revealed that the team has put in significant work during camp and is approaching the fixture with total concentration, explaining that maintaining a winning mindset remains a priority.
The players are fit, focused, and ready. We have worked very hard in camp, and we approach every match with the seriousness of a final to maintain the right mentality and match sharpness,” he said.
Igbokwe reinforced the coach’s optimism, stressing that the players are pulling in the same direction and understand the magnitude of the challenge before them. She added that the Falconets intend to deliver a strong display on home soil before replicating that determination in the reverse fixture in Senegal.
On team updates, Aduku noted that two players who picked up slight injuries are being monitored closely and have resumed light training sessions, while another squad member has completely overcome a recent illness. He also called on supporters to turn out in large numbers, emphasizing the influence of home support on the team’s morale and output.
The support of our fans will be very important to us, especially playing at home. It gives the players extra confidence and motivation.”
The match is slated for the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, while the second leg is billed for Dakar on Saturday, 14 February.
