Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, earned a hard-fought 0-0 draw against China PR in their second Group F match at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland on Thursday evening at the Arena Sosnowiec.
Coach Moses Aduku’s side started with intent and created the first clear opportunity through Janet Akekoromowei in the 17th minute.
China also posed a threat before the break. Huang Jiaxin, Zhou Xinyi, and Song Lijuan tested the Nigerian defense with efforts on goal, while Xue Sifan delivered two dangerous corners. Goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma was equal to the task as the Falconets’ backline held firm to keep the scores level at halftime.
The second half opened with China PR making a tactical change, introducing Chen Ruilin for Xiao Yafei. The substitution added impetus to their attack, with Chen, Xue, and Huang all registering attempts on goal.
The Falconets responded with urgency, as Precious Oscar (54th minute), Oluchi Mafisere (56th and 60th minutes), and Queen Joseph (58th minute) all went close.
Nigeria thought they had a chance to take the lead in the 74th minute when they were awarded a penalty, but the decision was overturned following a VAR review as the tie ended in a 0-0 draw.
The result leaves the Falconets with one point from two games in Group F.
Coach Aduku’s team will now turn their focus to their final group match against New Caledonia on Sunday, September 13, in Lódz as they fight to secure a place in the knockout rounds and keep Nigeria’s campaign alive.