Head Coach of Nigeria’s Falconets, Moses Aduku, is aiming for a convincing victory when his side faces Malawi in Saturday’s 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup final qualifying round clash in Ikenne, Ogun State.
Speaking during Friday’s pre-match press conference, Aduku revealed that his technical crew has thoroughly analysed the Malawian team, identifying both their strengths and weaknesses ahead of the crucial encounter.
The Falconets boss dismissed concerns over Malawi’s emphatic 6-1 victory against Guinea-Bissau in the previous round, insisting that his team is prepared to turn the tables with a dominant performance.
“No two games are the same, yes they scored six goals in their last game, we watched the game and we saw their strength and weakness and we will work towards it, we will counter it. The six we are looking at will be in the opposite.
“The Malawians are not a bad team, for them to win 6-1 shows how good they are but we can’t wait for tomorrow to come. Yes they scored six goals in the previous round but we cannot allow them to score a goal not to talk of scoring six goals.”
Aduku also reflected on the reaction from fans following the Falconets’ narrow 1-0 home victory over Senegal in the third round, a result that initially raised doubts before the team secured qualification to the final stage.
“I know when we beat Senegal 1-0 (in the first leg of the third round) it was difficult for Nigerians to believe that we can come out with such result but to God be the glory we got the result.”
Addressing questions about pressure ahead of the decisive tie, with a place at the World Cup in Poland at stake over two legs, the former Nigeria international admitted the weight of expectations but maintained confidence in his players.
“Even it’s the first game there’s always pressure but it’s not on the players it’s on me but I think I’ve been able to take care of the pressure.
“The important thing is that the focus of the players is very good in training. I don’t have fear that the girls will not perform we just need Nigerians to pray for us and keep believing in the team and be patient with the team.”
