Abuja: Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, on Sunday defeated New Caledonia 10-1 in their final Group F match at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup held in Poland. This resounding victory at Stadion Miejski LKS L³dz ensures Nigeria’s progression to the round of 16 and marks their largest winning margin in the tournament thus far.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Director of Media and Communications for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ademola Olajire, announced the result through a statement issued in Abuja. The match saw Winner David leading the Falconets with a hat-trick, scoring in the 60th, 75th, and stoppage-time minutes. Additional goals came from Ramotalahi Kareem, Rebecca Adegbeimile, and Tosin Rafiu, while New Caledonia’s Joceline Kourevi managed a consolation goal in the 89th minute.
The Falconets demonstrated dominance, particularly in the second half, as they created numerous opportunities and overwhelmed the New Caledonian defense. After the hour mark, Nigeria kept up the pressure with players like Janet Akekoromowei, Amber Ogbolu, and Kareem frequently threatening the opposition’s goal. Set pieces were crucial, with Tumininu Adeshina and Rafiu delivering several corners that intensified the pressure on New Caledonia.
Head Coach Moses Aduku made strategic substitutions to maintain the team’s momentum, bringing in Ogbolu, Victory Lucky, and Bright Effiong Etim in the 62nd and 79th minutes. These changes helped sustain Nigeria’s tempo and contributed to their late goal surge.
Previously, Nigeria had lost 2-0 to Spain and drew 0-0 with China. The victory over New Caledonia brought their total to four points from three matches, securing second place in Group F. Nigeria is set to face England, the winners of Group E, in the round of 16 on Thursday.
NFF’s Acting General Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme, lauded the Falconets for their performance. He expressed that the entire nation, including the National Sports Commission and Nigerian football stakeholders, are proud of their display against New Caledonia. Ikpeme encouraged the team to maintain their winning mentality as they progress in the tournament.
The result concluded New Caledonia’s campaign without any points. As tournament debutants, they suffered heavy losses against China and Spain and could not withstand Nigeria’s relentless pressure in their final group match. The Falconets’ 10-goal performance not only secured their advancement but also improved Nigeria’s goal difference, which played a vital role in their progression from a competitive group.
The results advanced Spain, Nigeria, and China to the round of 16, with Spain topping Group F with nine points and a 15-goal difference. Nigeria secured second place with four points and a plus seven goal difference, while China, with four points and a plus three goal difference, took third. New Caledonia finished at the bottom with a minus 25 goal difference.
In another Group F match on Sunday, Spain defeated China 3-1. The 2026 tournament, which began on September 5, is scheduled to conclude on September 27.