Falconets Step Up Preparations for Crucial U-20 World Cup Qualifier Against Malawi
Nigeria’s U-20 Women’s National Team, the Falconets, have intensified preparations for their crucial FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup final qualifying fixture against Malawi, with the first leg scheduled for Saturday, May 2.
Head Coach Moses Aduku expressed confidence in the team’s readiness on Friday, assuring that the players are fully focused ahead of the encounter with the Southern African side.
According to him, the team currently has a full squad in camp, with all players committed to the task and no injury concerns affecting preparations.
“We have a full squad on ground and everyone is focused on the task at hand. From now, we will concentrate on team planning and tactical work. We are taking this very seriously, and I believe by the end of the match we will come out victorious,” Aduku said.
He added that there is a strong sense of unity within the camp, with high morale among the players as they gear up for the decisive fixture.
The coach also highlighted the depth and athleticism of the squad, noting the challenge of blending players from different clubs within a short period, while expressing confidence in building a cohesive and competitive team before the match.
Aduku called on Nigerians to support the team with prayers, recalling their backing during earlier rounds against Rwanda and Senegal, and expressing optimism about securing a World Cup ticket after the two-legged tie against Malawi.
The Falconets have continued intensive training sessions in Abuja as they fine-tune strategies for the first leg, while the return leg is scheduled to take place in Lilongwe on May 9. Nigeria reached the final round after defeating Senegal 3-1 on aggregate, having earlier thrashed Rwanda 5-0, while Malawi advanced with a 6-2 aggregate win over Guinea-Bissau.
