Nigeria’s Falconets and Malawi have been drawn against each other in the final qualifying round for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, setting up a decisive two-legged tie in May.
The first leg is scheduled for Nigeria between May 1 and 3, 2026. The return match will be hosted by Malawi in Blantyre from May 8 to 10. The victor on aggregate will secure Africa’s place at the global tournament, set for Poland in September 2026.
Both teams advanced to this stage with commanding aggregate wins in the previous round. Nigeria, a perennial powerhouse in African youth women’s football, overcome Senegal 3-1 over two legs. Malawi, continuing a notable rise in the region’s women’s game, secured a 6-2 aggregate victory over Guinea-Bissau to set up the clash with the Nigerian side, coached by Moses Aduku.
This final African qualifying tie represents the last hurdle for both nations. For Nigeria’s Falconets, it is an opportunity to extend their storied history at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, having previously qualified for several editions. For Malawi, a win would mark a landmark achievement, signifying the country’s first appearance at this specific global youth championship.
The winner’s qualification will be confirmed once the aggregate score from both matches is settled. The successful team will join other continental qualifiers in Poland for the 2026 tournament, which serves as a key platform for emerging talent in women’s football worldwide.
The upcoming matches in May will therefore carry significant weight, determining not only which African nation progresses but also highlighting the growing competitive depth and investment in women’s youth development across the continent.
