Head coach of Nigeria U20 women’s national team, Moses Aduku, says his side is fully prepared for the decisive second-leg FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Malawi, www.aclsports.com reports.
The two-time FIFA World Cup silver-medallists, the Falconets, head into the encounter with a 2–0 aggregate advantage, but Aduku insists the tie is far from over, especially against a Malawian side that has never lost at the Bingu National Stadium.
“Well, first and foremost, we thank God for journey mercy to Malawi. We are here for business and we are prepared,” Aduku said, adding that “there is always a first time” regarding Malawi’s home record.
The Nigerian coach acknowledged the quality of the opposition, stressing respect for the hosts while maintaining confidence in the Falconets’ ability to get the job done. “They are not a pushover. They are a good team, we respect them. But tomorrow we are here to play and to win. We’ve watched them, we’ve strategised, and we will execute tomorrow,” he added.
With Nigeria holding a two-goal cushion, Aduku said the focus remains on delivering in the final 90 minutes of the qualification race, noting that tactical details would remain undisclosed. “This is just the last 90 minutes to the World Cup. Strategically, you will know by tomorrow. I don’t need to reveal anything we’ve done,” he said.
Aduku also confirmed that the squad has been boosted by a financial incentive pledged by the owner of Remo Stars, but dismissed any suggestion of pressure on the players. “No pressure at all. The girls are prepared and ready to go,” he said.
Captain Joy Igbokwe also expressed confidence ahead of the clash, describing the fixture as a major opportunity for the Falconets and for her leadership role. “We are here for business and we will take tomorrow’s game with all seriousness,” she said.
Igbokwe added that motivation within the squad is already high as they push for World Cup qualification. “We have a strong mentality to take all games seriously and win at all costs. The motivation is appreciated, but this ticket means a lot to us,” she stated.
Aduku, speaking on the atmosphere in Malawi, described the reception as welcoming and stressed the importance of respect in football. “Football is not war, it’s a game. After the match, we remain friends,” he added.
The match will take place on Saturday, 09 May 2026, at 2:00pm (Nigerian time) at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, Malawi. The winner of the tie will secure one of Africa’s four available slots at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland, scheduled to take place from 5 to 27 September 2026.
