Falconets thrash Ghana 3–1 in WAFU-B U-20 cup opener

Falconets thrash Ghana 3–1 in WAFU-B U-20 cup opener
— Nigeria tops Group A, faces Benin Republic next

Nigeria’s U-20 women’s team, the Falconets, kicked off their campaign at the 2025 WAFU Zone B U-20 Girls’ Cup on a winning note, defeating Ghana’s Black Princesses 3–1 on Saturday in Benin Republic.

Head coach Moses Aduku fielded a strong starting lineup, with Taiwo Afolabi returning to the squad after featuring for the Super Falcons in recent World Cup qualifiers. Janet Akekoromowei and Precious Oscar also made the starting XI, while captain Joy Igbokwe marshalled the midfield.

The first half lived up to the billing of a fierce West African derby, with both sides battling for control. Nigeria, however, broke the deadlock in the 37th minute after a Ghanaian defender handled the ball inside the box.

Akekoromowei calmly converted from the penalty spot to hand the Falconets the lead. The midfielder doubled Nigeria’s advantage immediately after the restart, showing fine composure to chip over Ghana’s goalkeeper Grace Andoh from close range.

READ ALSO:

• Outrage in Bayelsa as policeman assaults his three children over witchcraft claim
• Kano Muslims protest Trump’s threat to attack Nigeria
• Bishop Anagbe at centre of US–Nigeria row over alleged Christian massacres

Ghana reduced the deficit four minutes later through Sarah Nyarko, who finished from close range to make it 2–1. Despite Ghana’s pressure, the Falconets’ defence stood firm to repel several attacks.

Nigeria sealed victory in the 88th minute when Favour Chiamaka’s in-swinging corner deceived the Ghanaian goalkeeper and sailed into the net for a third goal.

The 3–1 win puts Nigeria at the top of Group A. The Falconets will face hosts Benin Republic next before meeting Ghana again on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m.

The 2025 WAFU Zone B U-20 Girls’ Cup, which began on Friday, features only three teams — Nigeria, Ghana, and hosts Benin Republic — and will conclude on Wednesday.

The tournament serves as a vital platform for identifying emerging talents and preparing national youth squads for future CAF and FIFA competitions.

Falconets thrash Ghana 3–1 in WAFU-B U-20 cup opener