Nigeria’s U20 women’s team, the Falconets, will begin their quest for a place at the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in the second round of African qualifiers, where they are set to face either Rwanda or Zimbabwe, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Falconets, one of Africa’s most successful youth teams, received a bye to the second round alongside a few other nations due to their historic pedigree in the competition.

The qualifiers kick off across the continent this weekend, signalling the beginning of a long journey toward the tournament set to be held in Poland in August 2026.

Nigeria’s Falconets. Photo by IMAGO

Africa’s qualification campaign will unfold over four knockout rounds, with just four teams eventually making it through to the global finals.

Nigeria’s Falconets carry a fearsome record into the qualifiers — unbeaten in the competition’s history with 44 wins and only three draws. The team, a vital pipeline for talent into the Super Falcons, has featured in every edition of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup since its inception.

U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers: Nigeria’s Falconets await winner of Rwanda – Zimbabwe tie

The Falconets have twice reached the final of the global tournament, losing to Germany on both occasions — first in 2010, then again in 2014. Despite those setbacks, they remain a powerhouse on the continent and a consistent force at the global level.

As they await the outcome of the first-round clash between Rwanda and Zimbabwe, Nigeria’s preparations will continue with a focus on maintaining their qualifying dominance.

The winner between Rwanda and Zimbabwe will be decided over two legs — the first to be played on Sunday, 11 May, and the second leg on Wednesday, 14 May.