Rwanda’s U20 women’s national team has started full training in Kigali ahead of their big clash with Nigeria’s Falconets in the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The Rwandan team, made up mostly of local players, opened camp over the weekend. Their players based in Europe are expected to join the squad in the coming days.
Coach Urges Team to Be Brave
Head coach Cassa André Mbungo has told his players to face the tough challenge with confidence.
“Be fearless, be focused, obey the rhythm of tactics,” Mbungo said.
“We respect Nigeria, but we won’t be afraid. If we stay focused and work hard, we can make our country proud.”
Training is focused on fitness, discipline, and tactical awareness, as Rwanda hopes to cause an upset in this two-legged qualifier.
Match Dates Confirmed
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First Leg: Sunday, 21 September at Kigali Pele Stadium, Rwanda
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Second Leg: Friday, 27 September in Ibadan, Nigeria
The winner over two legs will move closer to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Mexico.
Rwanda Knocked Out Zimbabwe
Rwanda reached this stage after beating Zimbabwe 2-1 on aggregate in the first round of qualifiers. The Rwanda Football Federation is backing the young team and has called on fans to fill the stadium and cheer them on.
Falconets Set to Arrive in Kigali
Nigeria’s Falconets, who are one of Africa’s strongest youth teams, will arrive in Kigali on Thursday to complete their final preparations.
The Falconets have a strong record — they have qualified for every edition of the U20 Women’s World Cup and reached the final twice. With traditional rivals Germany missing this edition, Nigeria is seen as one of the favourites to qualify.
Match Officials Named
CAF has appointed Aminata Fullah from Sierra Leone as the referee for the first leg. She will be assisted by her compatriots Hannah Lydia Moses and Fatmata Mansaray, while Love Tuu Wehyee from Liberia will be the fourth official.
Oyo State Government Supports Falconets
Back in Nigeria, the Oyo State Government has approved ₦110 million to support the Falconets’ camp and host the return leg in Ibadan. Commissioner Mojeed Mogbonjubola said the money will cover accommodation, transport, feeding, medicals, and logistics.
This match will be the first-ever competitive meeting between the two countries at the U20 women’s level.