Falconets bow out of World Cup after late Colombia heartbreak

By Johnson Arua

Nigeria’s Falconets have crashed out of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia in Lodz on Sunday.

Moses Aduku’s girls dominated large portions of the encounter but were unable to convert their opportunities, with Colombia goalkeeper Luisa Agudelo keeping the Nigerian attack at bay.

Janet Akekoromowei came close to breaking the deadlock in the first half when her effort struck the crossbar, while Tumininu Adeshina also tested Agudelo, who produced a fine save to deny the Nigerian forward.

The Falconets maintained the pressure after the interval, controlling proceedings and pushing for the opening goal as Colombia struggled to contain their attacking moves.

Nigeria’s hopes, however, suffered a major setback in the 77th minute when Kafayat Mafisere was shown a red card, reducing the Falconets to 10 players.

The numerical disadvantage eventually proved costly as Colombia increased the pressure in the closing stages and found the breakthrough in stoppage time.

Valerin Loboa scored the decisive goal to hand Colombia victory and bring Nigeria’s campaign to an end.

The late strike came despite the Falconets’ dominance for much of the match, as their inability to turn their chances into goals ultimately proved decisive.