Nigeria’s Falconets launched their WAFU B U20 Girls Cup campaign in the Benin Republic with an emphatic 3-1 victory over defending champions Ghana on Saturday morning, avenging their heartbreak from last year’s final defeat, Footynaija.com reports.
Janet Akeremkowei was the star of the show, netting twice in the first half to put Nigeria firmly in control before Favour Chiamaka sealed the win with a remarkable late strike straight from a corner.
Ghana, who had beaten hosts Benin 2-0 in Friday’s opener, looked visibly tired against a fresher and sharper Nigerian side. The Falconets dominated early exchanges and broke the deadlock in the 37th minute when Akeremkowei calmly slotted home from the penalty spot.
GOAL! Nigeria Falconets take the lead against Ghana in the WAFU B Girls Cup. 0-1. pic.twitter.com/Tn172slDOA
— GNB Official (@GHNaijaBallers) November 8, 2025
Moments before halftime, she struck again, a dazzling solo effort that doubled Nigeria’s lead and left the Black Princesses chasing the game.
GOAL! Nigeria Falconets double their lead against Ghana’s Black Princesses. 0-2. pic.twitter.com/HxxSnUd9KM
— GNB Official (@GHNaijaBallers) November 8, 2025
The Ghanaians emerged stronger after the break and reduced the deficit five minutes into the second half, briefly threatening a comeback.
GOAL! Ghana get one goal back! Wow!! 1-2 now. pic.twitter.com/zcwrzDBeoF
— GNB Official (@GHNaijaBallers) November 8, 2025
But despite a series of half-chances from both sides, Nigeria’s defence stood resolute.
With two minutes left on the clock, Favour Chiamaka delivered the final blow, curling a corner kick directly into the net to make it 3-1 and secure Nigeria’s first win of the tournament.
GOAL! Favour Chiamaka with the nail on the coffin as Nigeria Falconets get their third goal against Ghana Black Princesses. 1-3 pic.twitter.com/iRXd6DiYCa
— GNB Official (@GHNaijaBallers) November 8, 2025
The victory propels the Falconets to the top of the three-team table with three points and a +2 goal difference. Ghana sit second, also on three points but with an inferior goal balance, while Benin remain bottom.
The ongoing round-robin tournament features just three teams after the withdrawals of Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso. Each side will play the others twice, with matches taking place daily. Nigeria face Benin next on Sunday before a rematch against Ghana on Tuesday.
