Nigeria's Falconets secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup on Saturday, even after losing 2-1 to Malawi in Lilongwe. The team advanced 3-2 on aggregate over the two-legged tie.
Malawi struck early through midfielder Faith Chimzimu in the ninth minute. Her goal gave the hosts an immediate advantage in front of their home crowd.
Chimzimu extended Malawi's lead to 2-0 in the 56th minute. The Europa League winner with BK Häcken was proving a constant threat to Nigeria's defence.
Oscar Precious pulled one back for the Falconets in the 62nd minute. His goal set up a tense finish but wasn't enough to change the match result.
Coach Moses Aduku's side has now qualified for every edition of the U-20 Women's World Cup. Poland will host the tournament in September 2026.
