Former coach of Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, Bala Nkiyu, has warned the Falconets against adopting a defensive mindset when they face Senegal in the return leg of their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier.
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Nigeria head into the decisive clash with a slim 1–0 advantage from the first leg played at home, but Nkiyu believes protecting that lead by sitting deep could be costly against a physically strong and determined Senegalese side.
“It will be a very tough test,” Nkiyu said. “A one-goal lead is never enough to relax, especially away from home. The Falconets must continue to play their natural attacking game.”
The experienced youth coach stressed that fear or panic could undo the good work already done by the team, urging the players to approach the match with confidence and bravery.
“Trying to defend for 90 minutes is too risky,” he added. “They must attack, press and express themselves. That is how Nigerian teams succeed at this level.”
Nkiyu praised the Falconets for grinding out a narrow win in the first leg but insisted that improvement is required ahead of the return fixture, particularly in decision-making and composure in the final third.
He also highlighted the importance of mental strength, noting that Senegal will come out aggressively in front of their supporters.
“Senegal will throw everything at Nigeria. The girls must stay calm, believe in their ability and play without fear,” he said.
Nigeria are chasing qualification for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, and Nkiyu believes the current Falconets squad has the quality to progress if they remain true to their attacking identity.
“This team has talent,” he concluded. “If they play positively and with confidence, they can finish the job and qualify.”
The return leg promises to be a stern examination, but the Falconets know that a disciplined yet attacking performance could secure their place at the global tournament.
