Nigeria’s latest bid for Women’s Under-20 World Cup glory starts against Spain

Nigeria will begin another pursuit of a first Women’s Under-20 World Cup title with a demanding Group F fixture against Spain, the champions in 2022.

The team managed by Christopher Danjuma will also face China and New Caledonia in the group stage, with Nigeria aiming to go further than it has in the competition’s previous editions.

Nigeria have reached the final twice, in 2010 and 2014, but have yet to win the tournament. Their latest campaign in Poland will be their 12th consecutive appearance at the finals, extending a run that began in 2002.

That experience gives Nigeria a strong understanding of the demands of the competition and the route required to reach the final. However, their opening match presents a significant challenge, with Spain arriving as the reigning champions from 2022.

The two teams will meet on Monday, 7 September, in a match scheduled to begin at 16:00. It will be Nigeria’s first opportunity to test themselves against one of the leading sides in the group.

China will provide the opposition in Nigeria’s second match. Their record at the tournament is comparable to that of the African side, although China have made two final appearances in six participations.

That meeting will take place on Thursday, 10 September, also at 16:00. The result could prove important in determining Nigeria’s position before the final round of group matches.

Nigeria will complete the first phase against New Caledonia on Sunday, 13 September, with kick-off set for 13:00.

For New Caledonia, the fixture represents a landmark occasion. The side will be taking part in the final tournament of the Women’s Under-20 World Cup for the first time.

Nigeria’s long-standing presence at this level contrasts with New Caledonia’s debut, while Spain and China bring their own history of success in the competition. The group therefore combines established contenders, experienced finalists and a team appearing at the finals for the first time.

Nigeria’s schedule in Group F is:

– Monday, 7 September, 16:00: Spain v Nigeria – Thursday, 10 September, 16:00: China v Nigeria – Sunday, 13 September, 13:00: Nigeria v New Caledonia