How Falconets Performed In 11 Previous FIFA U-20 W/Cup

Nigeria’s Falconets will continue their quest for an elusive world title as they join other teams in Poland for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

This 12th edition of the tournament will run from 5 to 27 September 2026, with 24 teams competing.

This will be the Falconets’ 12th appearance since making their debut at the maiden edition in 2002 in Canada.

And to realise their dream of becoming the first African team to be crowned FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup champions, the Moses Aduku-led side must navigate their way out of a group that includes former champions Spain, China and debutants New Caledonia.

Ahead of the tournament, Completesports.com’s JAMES AGBEREBI takes a look at how the Falconets have performed in the 11 previous editions they have featured in.

2002 U-20 Women’s World Cup (Group Stage)

The Falconets featured at the inaugural FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, which was held in Canada in 2002.

Drawn alongside hosts Canada, Japan and Denmark, the Falconets failed to progress from the group stage.

The Nigerian team drew 1-1 with Japan in their first game, lost 2-1 to Denmark in their second group game and also lost 2-0 to Canada to exit the tournament.

2004 U-20 Women’s World Cup (Quarterfinals)

The 2004 U-20 Women’s World Cup was an improvement for the Falconets, who reached the quarterfinals.

After suffering a 1-0 loss to China in their opener, the Falconets edged out Brazil 3-2 on Matchday Two before holding Italy to a 1-1 draw to advance to the knockout round for the first time.

The quarterfinal saw the Falconets face Germany, and after 90 minutes and extra time ended 1-1, the Europeans won 5-4 on penalties.

2006 U-20 Women’s World Cup (Quarterfinals)

It was another quarterfinal feat for the Falconets at the 2006 FIFA U-20 World Cup, which was the third…