Nigeria’s female youth national team, Falconets gained commendations for ‘playing their hearts out,’ despire losing to Colombia at the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.
Sports247 reports that the accolades came from Nigeria’s ambassador to Poland, Chioma Ohakim, who pointed out that the Falconets out up a gallant show that brought pride and honour to their country.
Ohakim added while addressing the players in the dressing room immediately after the final whistle on Sunday that they have nothing to be ashamed of, as they leave Poland with their heads held high.
The ambassador gave words of consolation to the Nigerian players, after a stoppage-time goal by Valerin Loboa handed victory to Colombia and cut short all battling efforts of the Falconets, who suffered a red card during the encounter in Łódź.
The Falconets earlier on tried several corners from Tumininu Adeshina and Kafayat Mafisere as well as efforts on goal by Janet Akekoromowei, Favour Nkwocha, Tosin Rafiu and Onyedikachi Ekezie, but the Colombians held firm.
Portugal-based Akekoromowie hit the bar from the edge of the box in the 19th minute and defender Tumininu Adeshina saw her shot tipped over by goalkeeper Luisa Agudelo in the 38th.
The second half was marked by bookings for Rebecca Adegbemile, before Mafisere got sent off for Nigeria, who continued testing Colombia’s keeper with efforts from Rafiu and Akekoromowei.
Falconets’ coach, Moses Aduku sent on Winner Onajite David and Precious Oscar to inject fresh energy, but things fell apart when Loboa latched onto a through ball in the second minute of added time to sink Nigeria’s hope.
The goal came despite gallant efforts from Nigeria’s goalkeeper and captain, Christiana Uzoma, who blocked the first shot, but Loboa tucked in the rebound to send the South Americans into the semi-finals.
As the Nigerian players broke down in tears at the final whistle, Ambassador Ohakim provided soothing words to the downcast squad, as she addressed them in the dressing room of Stadion LKS Miejski.
“The result was unfortunate because you played your hearts out. Everyone can testify to your determination and desire to make it to the semi-finals. Nigerians in Poland are very proud of your efforts,” Ohakim submitted sympathetically.
