Nigeria’s Falconets opened their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign on a disappointing note, suffering a 2-0 defeat to defending champions Spain in their Group F opener in Poland on Monday.
The Nigerians struggled to impose themselves as Spain controlled the game for long periods and capitalised on their chances at the ArcelorMittal Park in Sosnowiec.
Marisa Garcia gave Spain the lead in the 13th minute, leaving the Falconets to chase the game against one of the tournament favourites.
Moses Aduku’s team tried to respond but could not break down Spain’s disciplined defence before halftime.
The defending champions maintained control after the restart and extended their lead in the 73rd minute through Alba Cerrato to complete the victory.
The result leaves Nigeria needing positive results from their remaining Group F matches to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive.
The Falconets will meet China PR on September 10 before facing New Caledonia in their final group fixture, with the clash against China expected to be decisive in their qualification bid.
Nigeria entered the tournament after a positive build-up that included a 1-0 win over hosts Poland and a 1-1 draw against the Republic of Korea, with Mary Mamudu scoring in both friendlies.
The Falconets have appeared at every edition of the competition since its launch in 2002 but are yet to win the title, having finished as runners-up in 2010 and 2014.
Ahead of the opener, Aduku had called on his players to treat the encounter with Spain as a final.
“We will approach the match like a cup final because we want to win,” Aduku had said.
Nigeria must now regroup for their meeting with China PR as they seek their first points and a way back into contention in Group F.
