Falconets. Photo Credit: NFF Comms
The Nigerian U20 women’s squad, famously known as the Falconets, kicked off their WAFU B U20 Girls Cup journey emphatically with a 3-1 triumph over reigning champions Ghana in Adjohoun, Benin Republic, early Saturday morning, according to Soccernet.ng.
Having fallen short against Ghana’s Black Princesses in last year’s final, the Falconets entered this match with a steely resolve that was evident throughout the game.
Leading the offensive charge was the prolific forward Janet Akekoromowei, who netted two goals in the first half. The victory was sealed late in the game by Favour Chiamaka, who scored a remarkable goal directly from a corner kick.
Photo Credit: Super Falcons/ X
Ghana, who had secured a 2-0 win over hosts Benin in their opening match on Friday, appeared visibly drained as Nigeria asserted dominance from the first whistle.
The Falconets’ pressure bore fruit in the 37th minute when Akekoromowei calmly converted a penalty after a foul inside the box, putting Nigeria ahead.
Just before halftime, Akekoromowei showcased her skill once more by weaving past defenders and calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper, doubling Nigeria’s lead and sending the team into the break with a deserved 2-0 advantage.
Photo Credit: Ufoawafu B /X
Ghana’s Resurgence Met with Falconets’ Resilience
After the break, the Black Princesses came out revitalized, intensifying their attacks and managing to reduce the deficit five minutes into the second half, making the scoreline 2-1. This goal ignited a tense period where both sides created several scoring opportunities.
Despite the mounting pressure, Nigeria’s defense remained steadfast, with the Falconets’ goalkeeper delivering a series of crucial saves to maintain their lead.
The match seemed destined for a nail-biting finish until the 88th minute when Favour Chiamaka produced a spectacular moment, curling a corner kick directly into the net to extend Nigeria’s lead to 3-1.
This victory marked a sweet moment of redemption for the Falconets, who were narrowly defeated by Ghana in a penalty shootout two years ago. This time, Nigeria’s blend of tactical discipline, relentless pressing, and creative flair proved decisive.
Standings and Upcoming Fixtures
With this win, Nigeria tops the three-team group with three points and a +2 goal difference. Ghana also has three points but sits second due to a neutral goal difference, while Benin remains at the bottom following their opening loss.
The tournament, which was scaled down to three teams following the withdrawals of Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso, features a double round-robin format where each team faces the others twice, home and away.
Nigeria’s next challenge is against host nation Benin on Sunday morning, followed by a rematch with Ghana on Tuesday. The competition concludes on Wednesday, November 12.
