Nigeria’s Falconets have been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in their quarter-final clash in Łódź, Poland, on Sunday.
The loss ended Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals and extended their wait for a first-ever U-20 Women’s World Cup title.
The Falconets started brightly and dominated the opening half, holding 64 per cent possession and managing seven attempts, two of them on target, but were unable to find a breakthrough.
Janet Akekoromowei remained lively after the restart, firing three attempts that Colombia’s goalkeeper managed to keep out.
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Nigeria’s task grew more difficult in the 74th minute when Kafayat Mafisere was sent off following a tackle, reducing the Falconets to 10 players.
Colombia capitalised on their numerical advantage, gradually building pressure as the match wore on. With the game appearing headed for extra time, Colombia struck the decisive blow in the 92nd minute.
Valerin Loboa collected a through ball from midfield and slotted a low shot past Nigeria goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma to put Colombia ahead.
The Falconets had little time to respond, and the match ended 1-0 in Colombia’s favour. Nigeria had gone into the quarter-final full of confidence following a commanding 3-0 win over England in the round of 16, but their campaign at this year’s World Cup has now come to a close.
