Falconets midfielder Precious Oscar has expressed disappointment over Nigeria’s failure to defeat China at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, but insists the team will not give up on its ambition of reaching the knockout stage.
Nigeria were held to a 0–0 draw by China PR in their second Group F encounter at Arena Sosnowiec on Thursday, leaving the Falconets still searching for their first victory of the tournament.
Having suffered a 2–0 defeat to Spain in their opening fixture, Nigeria needed a strong response against China and produced an improved performance, but could not find the goal required to secure all three points.
Oscar admitted the outcome was difficult for the players to accept after they went into the encounter determined to win.
The midfielder, however, stressed that setbacks are part of football and believes the Falconets must respond positively rather than allow the disappointment to end their World Cup ambitions.
Nigeria created several opportunities against China, with Janet Akekoromowei, Kafayat Mafisere, Queen Joseph and Oscar among those who threatened the Chinese defence.
The Falconets also appeared to have earned a major opportunity to break the deadlock when a penalty was awarded in the 74th minute, but the decision was overturned following a VAR review.
At the other end, goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma and Nigeria’s defence resisted China’s attacking pressure to ensure Aduku’s side at least collected their first point and clean sheet of the competition.
For Oscar, attention must now move quickly to Nigeria’s final Group F encounter against New Caledonia on Sunday, September 13.
The Falconets have collected just one point from two matches, making the final group fixture crucial to their hopes of extending their stay in Poland.
Despite the difficult position, Oscar remains confident that Nigeria can produce the victory required and allow themselves to progress.
Head coach Moses Aduku has expressed a similar determination, promising that his players will approach the New Caledonia encounter with maximum urgency after showing signs of improvement against China.
The challenge now is converting that improvement into goals and, more importantly, three points.
Oscar believes the players remain united and determined to fight until their qualification fate is decided.
Two games have brought disappointment and just one point, but Precious Oscar’s message is clear: the Falconets are not giving up on their World Cup dream.
