Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, the Falconets, cruised to a convincing 3–0 victory over Ghana’s Black Princesses on Tuesday in their return leg clash at the ongoing U-20 WAFU-B Girls Cup, held at the Stade Omnisports d’Adjohoun in Benin Republic.
The Falconets began their campaign impressively, having earlier defeated Ghana 3–1 in their opening match on Thursday before overpowering hosts Benin Republic 3–0 in their second outing on Sunday. With this latest win, Nigeria completed a double over Ghana and secured qualification with a game to spare.
Goals from Janet Akekoromowei, Alaba Olabiyi, and Ramotalahi Kareem ensured another dominant display for the Falconets, who have continued to assert their superiority in the competition.
From kickoff, Nigeria dictated the pace, showcasing confidence and composure through slick passing and sustained attacking pressure. Akekoromowei broke the deadlock in the 17th minute with a superbly taken long-range free kick that sailed beyond the Ghanaian goalkeeper.
Just seven minutes later, Olabiyi capitalized on a headed pass inside the box to poke home Nigeria’s second, further dampening Ghana’s hopes.
The Falconets continued to control proceedings after halftime, and in the 61st minute, Kareem expertly finished off a precise cross from Akekoromowei to make it 3–0, putting the result beyond doubt and reaffirming Nigeria’s dominance in the tournament.
The goal was Kareem’s third of the tournament, bringing her level with Akekoromowei at the top of the scoring charts and highlighting the Falconets’ attacking depth and consistency.
The result leaves Nigeria on nine points from three matches, and it rounds off the group phase against Benin Republic on Wednesday.
It was also sweet revenge for the Falconets, who lost to Ghana on penalties in the final of the inaugural edition two years ago.
It was another statement victory from Nigeria’s rising stars, composed, ruthless, and full of intent as they continue their march toward continental glory.
The round-robin format of the tournament means each of the three teams – Nigeria, Ghana, and Benin – will face one another twice.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2025 WAFU Zone B Under-20 Girls’ Cup started on Nov. 7 and will end on Nov. 12, with just three participating nations – Nigeria, Ghana, and hosts Benin Republic.
The tournament serves as a crucial developmental platform for identifying new talents and preparing national squads for upcoming CAF and FIFA youth competitions.