Nigeria’s U-20 Women’s National Team, the Falconets, have returned to Abuja on Monday following their campaign at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.

The young Nigerians arrived back in the Federal Capital Territory after representing the country at the global tournament, bringing their latest international assignment to an end.

The Falconets advanced to the quarter-finals of the competition before their campaign was halted by Colombia in a dramatic encounter.

Nigeria suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat, with Colombia’s Valerin Loboa scoring in stoppage time to settle the contest after the Falconets had battled for much of the game.

The Nigerian side had earlier produced an impressive run through the group and knockout stages, including a 10-1 victory over New Caledonia and a commanding 3-0 win against England in the round of 16.

Their group-stage campaign also included a 2-0 defeat to Spain and a goalless draw against China.

Despite the quarter-final disappointment, the tournament provided valuable international experience for a young squad expected to form part of Nigeria’s women’s football pipeline in the years ahead.

The Falconets’ return to Abuja marks the beginning of a new phase for the players, who will now return to their respective clubs and continue their development.

Their performances in Poland have also provided another opportunity for several members of the squad to gain exposure on the global stage and attract attention from clubs and scouts.

The team was welcomed home following a campaign that saw Nigeria reach the last eight of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.