Rwanda’s U-20 women’s team is brimming with confidence as they prepare to host Nigeria’s Falconets in the first leg of their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier on September 21 at the Kigali Pele Stadium.

Head coach Cassa André Mbungo struck a defiant note when speaking through the Rwanda Football Association’s official X handle, urging his side to embrace the challenge of facing one of Africa’s most decorated youth teams.

> “Be fearless, be focused, obey the rhythm of tactics,” Mbungo told his players. “We respect Nigeria, but we will not be intimidated. If we work hard and stick to the plan, we can make our nation proud.”

Nigeria, ever-present at every edition of the U-20 Women’s World Cup since the tournament began in 2002, boast an enviable pedigree, having reached the finals in 2010 and 2014. Yet the Rwandan youngsters believe home advantage and discipline can tilt the scales.

CAF has confirmed the match officials: Aminata Fullah of Sierra Leone will referee the tie, assisted by Hannah Lydia Moses (Liberia) and Fatmata Mansaray (Sierra Leone). Liberian official Love Tuu Wehyee will serve as fourth official, with Militna Ivanete Amrie of Seychelles as match commissioner and Amegee Aissata Ameyo of Togo as referee assessor.

As Kigali gears up for Sunday’s showdown, Rwanda’s rising stars are determined to write their own piece of history against the formidable Falconets.