Nigeria’s Falconets held to goalless draw by China PR at U20 World Cup

Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, were held to a 0-0 draw by China PR in their second Group F match at the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.

The match took place at Arena Sosnowiec on Thursday evening, with neither side able to find a decisive goal despite a closely contested encounter.

Coach Moses Aduku’s team made the brighter start and created the first clear opening in the 17th minute, when Janet Akekoromowei threatened the China PR defence.

Nigeria grew in confidence as the first half progressed. Kafayat Mafisere won a corner in the 33rd minute, before Akekoromowei went close again in the 38th minute and during added time.

The Falconets finished the opening period firmly on the front foot, but China PR also created opportunities before the interval.

Huang Jiaxin, Zhou Xinyi and Song Lijuan each tested Nigeria’s defence with attempts on goal, while Xue Sifan delivered two dangerous corners. Nigeria goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma responded well, and the backline stood firm to ensure the teams went into half-time level.

China PR made a change at the start of the second half, bringing on Chen Ruilin for Xiao Yafei. The substitution gave the Asian side greater attacking momentum, with Chen, Xue and Huang all registering efforts.

Nigeria responded with renewed urgency and created several chances of their own. Precious Oscar went close in the 54th minute, while Mafisere threatened in the 56th and 60th minutes. Queen Joseph also had an opportunity in the 58th minute.

The Falconets appeared to have been handed a chance to break the deadlock in the 74th minute when they were awarded a penalty. However, the decision was overturned following a VAR review.

Both teams continued to push for a winner, but neither could make the breakthrough before the final whistle.

The result gives Nigeria one point from their opening two Group F matches. Aduku’s side will finish the group stage against New Caledonia on Sunday, September 13, in Lodz.

That match will determine whether the Falconets can secure a place in the knockout rounds and keep their campaign at the global tournament alive.