Nigeria’s U20 women’s team, the Falconets, touched down in Lagos on Monday morning to a wave of optimism after edging Rwanda 1–0 in the first leg of their 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier.

Match-winner Alaba Olabiyi struck in the 70th minute at Kigali’s Pele Stadium, handing Nigeria a slender but vital advantage heading into the decisive return fixture. Without pause, the squad and officials moved straight to Ibadan, where the Lekan Salami Stadium will host Saturday’s second leg.

Buoyed by the away victory, the players have settled into Oyo State’s capital for an intensive training camp. Spirits are high as the reigning African champions aim to delight home fans and seal a spot in the third round of the qualification series.