Nigeria’s Falconets switch focus to Colombia after England victory

Nigeria head coach Moses Aduku says the Falconets have already put their 3-0 win over England behind them as they prepare for Sunday’s quarter-final against Colombia at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Lodz.

The Falconets secured their place in the last eight with a convincing victory over England’s Young Lionesses in the Round of 16. However, Aduku has warned his players that their progress will count for little unless they reproduce that performance against a Colombia side that presents another demanding challenge.

“It will be unwise for us to keep thinking of the win over England. That match is gone and we already cut short our celebration immediately after in the dressing room to focus on the encounter with Colombia,” Aduku told thenff.com.

The coach said Colombia’s elimination of the host nation demonstrated the quality and determination Nigeria will face in the quarter-final.

“The Colombians sent out the host nation and will not be a walk-in-the-park for us. We must put our best foot forward, contest every ball and go for victory,” he added.

Aduku also told his players they have a significant opportunity to create their own place in Nigerian football history as they attempt to reach the semi-finals.

“The girls realise that this is an extraordinary opportunity for them to write their names in gold in Nigeria football,” he said.

Familiar opponents

Sunday’s meeting will be the latest contest between Nigeria and Colombia at the competition. The Falconets defeated the South Americans 1-0 in the semi-final of the 2010 edition.

That previous success will provide historical context for the quarter-final, but Aduku’s immediate priority is ensuring his side remain disciplined and focused after their impressive result against England.

With a semi-final place at stake, Nigeria will be aiming to carry their momentum into the match while maintaining the concentration the coach has demanded throughout their preparation.