Falconets held to 1-1 draw by Korea in final friendly before U-20 World Cup

Nigeria’s Falconets played to a 1-1 draw with Korea Republic in a friendly on Tuesday, 31 August 2026, their last match before the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. Mary Mamudu gave the Falconets the lead in the 29th minute, replicating her goal from the 1-0 win over Poland last Saturday. Korea equalised from the penalty spot in the 78th minute. The Falconets now turn to their World Cup opener against Spain at Arena Sosnowiec on Monday, 7 September, followed by games against China and New Caledonia in the same group.

The draw shows the team can score but also highlights vulnerability to set‑piece concessions, a concern as they face a strong Spanish side. Mamudu’s form is a positive, but the side will need to tighten defence and convert chances if they hope to advance from the group.

Will the Falconets adjust their defensive organisation and finishing ahead of the Spain opener, or rely on Mamudu’s firepower to carry them through the group stage?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/01/falconets-held-by-korea-in-pre-world-cup-friendly/