Nigeria U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, were knocked out by a late Colombia strike in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup on Sunday, www.aclsports.com reports.
Valerin Loboa struck in the second minute of added time at Stadion Miejski ŁKS Łódź to send Colombia into the semi-finals after Kafayat Mafisere was sent off, ending the two-time silver medallists’ campaign.
The Falconets dominated the opening half and created several chances, but could not find a way past Colombia goalkeeper Luisa Agudelo. Janet Akekoromowei saw her effort hit the crossbar in the 19th minute, while Agudelo denied Tumininu Adeshina later in the half as the game remained goalless at the break.
Nigeria continued to push after the restart, with Christiana Uzoma saving Mariana Silva’s effort in the 71st minute.
Winner Onajite David replaced Queen Joseph, before Precious Oscar came on for Favour Nkwocha. Victory Lucky then replaced Jumai Adebayo as the Falconets continued to search for a breakthrough.
However, Nigeria’s task became more difficult when Kafayat Mafisere was sent off in the 77th minute for a high challenge, with the decision upheld after a VAR review.
Colombia capitalised on the numerical advantage in the closing stages, with Loboa finding the net in the second minute of added time to put her side ahead. The Falconets pushed for an equaliser but could not find one before the final whistle.
The Falconets had not reached the last four since 2014, with the quarter-final defeat ending their bid to return to the semi-finals after 12 years.
