Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, secured a crucial 1–0 victory over Senegal in the first leg of their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup third-round qualifier, but the win was overshadowed by a worrying injury to forward Janet Akekoromowei.
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Akekoromowei, who had been lively and influential in Nigeria’s attack, suffered a serious knock in the 42nd minute of the encounter.
The Bayelsa Queens forward was unable to continue and had to be stretched off the field, prompting visible concern among teammates and supporters.
She was subsequently replaced by Folajomi Alaba as head coach Moses Aduku was forced into an unplanned substitution before halftime.
Despite the setback, the Falconets showed resilience and tactical discipline. The breakthrough eventually came in the second half after Aduku introduced fresh legs.
Substitute Favour Nkwocha delivered a pinpoint corner kick which fellow substitute Kindness Ifeanyi expertly headed home, scoring the only goal of the match and giving Nigeria a slender advantage in the tie.
The victory places the Falconets in a strong position ahead of the return leg, but attention will now also turn to the condition of Akekoromowei, whose injury could be a significant concern as the qualifiers progress.
Medical updates are expected in the coming days, with Nigeria hoping the talented forward makes a swift recovery.
While the result boosts Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes, the team will be eager to combine progress on the pitch with positive news off it regarding Akekoromowei’s health.
