Nigeria’s Falconets stand one win away from ending a long wait. On Sunday they face Colombia in the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, aiming for their first semi-final appearance since 2014.
The two-time runners-up (2010 and 2014) arrive with momentum after a dominant 3-0 victory over England in the Round of 16. Tosin Rafiu, Janet Akekoromowei and Mary Mamudu scored the goals, while captain and goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma produced a standout display with six key saves, including a penalty stop.
Colombia advanced by edging hosts Poland 1-0 in their own last-16 match, setting up a contest between two sides that have already eliminated tournament hosts.
History offers Nigeria encouragement. In the 2010 tournament in Germany, the Falconets beat Colombia 1-0 in the semi-finals thanks to an early Ebere Orji goal. That run also featured a dramatic penalty-shootout win over the United States in the quarter-finals and ended with a runners-up finish — still one of the team’s best performances at the competition. Nigeria have reached the final twice but have never lifted the trophy.
Head coach Moses Aduku has already moved the squad’s focus forward. He stressed that the England result is in the past and that Colombia will be a tough, motivated opponent after their win over Poland. “It will be unwise for us to keep thinking of the win over England,” Aduku said. “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.”
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Mary Mamudu has been a consistent threat, scoring in the England match as well as in pre-tournament friendlies. The team’s recent form and the presence of experienced players give them a realistic platform to push deeper into the knockout stages.
The Nigeria Football Federation has also provided practical support. Outstanding daily allowances were paid during the final training session on Saturday, and acting General Secretary Emmanuel Ikpeme offered additional financial rewards while urging the players to stay focused. He expressed confidence that the team can overcome Colombia and continue their quest for a first-ever title.
A victory on Sunday would send the Falconets into the semi-finals for the first time in 12 years and keep alive the possibility of finally winning the competition after two previous final appearances.
The match represents both an opportunity to rewrite recent history and a stern test against a Colombian side that has already shown resilience.
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