Falconets Edge Senegal 1–0 In Tight World Cup Qualifier
By TAYO TAIWO (T. T.) OLUWOLE
NIGERIA’S Falconets claimed a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Senegal in the first leg of their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifying encounter at the MKO Abiola Stadium Complex in Abeokuta, Ogun State, keeping their qualification hopes firmly alive.
The Nigerian side began the contest on the front foot, pressing high and forcing Senegal into early defensive duty. Their bright start nearly yielded an opening goal within the first quarter of an hour, but celebrations were cut short after the effort was ruled out for an infringement.
Despite Nigeria’s territorial dominance, Senegal remained disciplined and well-organised, frustrating the hosts with compact defending and quick transitions. The visitors absorbed pressure effectively and limited clear-cut chances, ensuring the match remained goalless at the break.
The breakthrough finally arrived five minutes into the second half. From a well-delivered corner kick, Kindness Chinaza Ifeanyi rose above the Senegalese defence to power a commanding header into the net, sending the home crowd into celebration and giving Nigeria a deserved lead.
Buoyed by the goal, the Falconets continued to push for a second, again finding joy from set-piece situations. However, Senegal’s goalkeeper and backline stood firm, denying Nigeria the cushion they sought.
Senegal, though largely contained, showed resilience and composure, keeping the deficit to a single goal and maintaining a realistic chance ahead of the return leg.
With the narrow victory secured, Nigeria will head into the second leg knowing the job is far from finished. The decisive return fixtures are scheduled to commence from 13 February, with both teams still battling for a coveted place at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals.
