Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, are confident of a strong outing when they face Senegal in Saturday’s third-round, first-leg qualifier for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Friday evening, head coach Moses Aduku and team captain Joy Igbokwe expressed optimism about the team’s preparation, mindset, and overall fitness as the Falconets brace for the crucial two-legged tie that will decide a place in the next round of the qualification race to Poland 2026.

Coach Aduku revealed that the squad has undergone intensive preparations in camp and remains fully focused on the challenge ahead, insisting that his players approach every fixture with a do-or-die mentality.

“The players are fit, focused, and ready. We have worked very hard in camp, and we treat every match like a final. That is the only way to maintain the right mentality and stay sharp,” Aduku said.

Team captain Joy Igbokwe echoed her coach’s confidence, stressing that unity and determination have been key themes within the camp. She noted that the Falconets are determined to make their home advantage count before carrying the same level of commitment into the return leg in Senegal.

“We know what is at stake. The team is united and focused, and we are ready to give our best in the first leg at home and in the return match,” Igbokwe stated.

On the state of the squad, Aduku disclosed that two players who picked up minor knocks are being carefully managed and have resumed limited training, while another player has fully recovered from illness. He also called on Nigerian football fans to turn out in large numbers to support the team, emphasizing the importance of home backing.

“The support of our fans will be very important to us, especially playing at home. It gives the players extra confidence and motivation,” he added.

Saturday’s first-leg encounter will be played at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, with the return leg scheduled for Saturday, February 14, in Dakar.