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Nigeria’s Falconets secured a valuable first-leg advantage with a 1-0 victory over Rwanda in their FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier in Kigali, Footynaija.com reports.
The decisive strike came in the 70th minute at the Kigali Pelé Stadium when Janet Seimeyeha Akekoromowei powered in a header from a corner, handing Nigeria an important away goal and tilting the tie firmly in their favour.
Rwanda began brightly, pressing with intent and looking well-organised at the back. Their compact shape frustrated Nigeria throughout the first half, though the visitors carved out the clearer opportunities, only to be undone by poor decision-making in the final third.
After the break, Nigeria shifted gears. The Falconets pressed higher, regained control of midfield, and pinned Rwanda deep in their half. The hosts offered fleeting moments on the counter, but Nigeria’s defence stood firm, rarely allowing a clear sight of goal.
Akekoromowei then made the breakthrough for Nigeria, connecting with a well-timed header to hand the Falconets the victory.
️AMASHUSHO
— Mama Urwagasabo Tv (@Mamaurwagasabo1) September 21, 2025
Igitego cya mbere ikipe ya Nigeria y’abari n’abategarugori batarengeje imyaka 20 yatsindaga ikipe y’u Rwanda. #WWCQ2026
Rwanda0-1 Nigeria@FERWAFA #RWANGA #UrwagasaboSports pic.twitter.com/eBE8uyWfat
The result leaves the Falconets on course for what could be their 12th consecutive U20 Women’s World Cup appearance since the competition began in 2002.
For Rwanda, who are still chasing a maiden qualification, the performance showed promise but lacked cutting edge. They will now need to overturn the deficit in Saturday’s return leg at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, if they are to keep their dream alive.
The winner on aggregate will advance to the third round, where the will face either Senegal or Algeria.
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