Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, have stormed out of the blocks at the 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Girls’ Cup in Benin Republic, recording back-to-back dominant victories to move within touching distance of the title.
Led by star duo Janet Akekoromowei and Ramotalahi Kareem, who both netted braces in successive games, the Falconets have thrilled fans with attacking flair, sharp finishing, and complete dominance.
Akekoromowei Inspires 3–1 Win Over Ghana in Fiery Opener
The Falconets began their campaign in style on Saturday morning with a 3–1 victory over archrivals Ghana’s Black Princesses at the Omnisport Stadium in Adjohoun, a fitting “Jollof Derby” to kick off the tournament.
Coach Moses Aduku’s side asserted control from the first whistle, forcing Ghana’s goalkeeper Grace Andoh into an early save before earning a penalty in the 36th minute.
Janet Akekoromowei coolly converted from the spot to put Nigeria ahead, then doubled the lead in first-half stoppage time with a composed finish after beating two defenders.
Ghana reduced the deficit in the 49th minute through Sarah Nyarko, but the Falconets’ superiority shone through again late on. Favour Nkwocha scored directly from a corner in the 87th minute to seal a statement win.
Akekoromowei’s brilliance earned her the Woman of the Match award, a reward for a commanding midfield performance that set the tone for the rest of Nigeria’s campaign.
Kareem Double Downs Hosts Benin in 3–0 Rout
Barely 24 hours later, the Falconets returned to the pitch and delivered another masterclass, cruising to a 3–0 win over hosts Benin Republic on Sunday.
Nigeria’s relentless start paid off in the 15th minute, when Ramotalahi Kareem latched onto a lofted pass from Kesseina Oyijovwi, outpaced two defenders, and deftly chipped over the goalkeeper for the opener.
Kareem struck again in the 59th minute, finishing off a flowing move from the right wing to make it 2–0.
In added time, Precious Oscar capitalized on a defensive error from a corner to slot home the third and wrap up a comfortable victory.
Kareem’s outstanding display earned her the Woman of the Match award, the second consecutive Nigerian to win the accolade after Akekoromowei’s earlier heroics.
Falconets on the Brink of Glory
With six points from two matches and a +5 goal difference, Nigeria sits comfortably atop the three-team table ahead of Ghana and Benin Republic.
Each team will play the others twice, meaning the Falconets need just one more win to all but secure the title.
They next face Ghana again on Tuesday, November 11, before concluding their campaign against Benin Republic on Wednesday, November 12.
Nigeria Poised for Another Regional Triumph
Displaying their trademark blend of skill, pace, and precision, the Falconets look unstoppable as they chase yet another WAFU Zone B title.
With Akekoromowei pulling the strings in midfield and Kareem firing up front, Coach Aduku’s side has struck the perfect balance between flair and discipline, a formula that could make them regional champions once again.
