We Are Not Scared Of England — Falconets Captain Sends Strong Message Ahead Of Clash

Nigeria’s Falconets are confident of securing a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup as they prepare to face England in the round of 16 at the Bielsko-Biała Stadium on Thursday, September 17, at 2 p.m.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Falconets captain Christiana Uzoma and forward Ramotalahi Kareem expressed confidence ahead of the crucial encounter after Nigeria booked their place in the knockout stage with an emphatic 10-1 victory over debutants New Caledonia in their final Group F fixture.

The result saw Nigeria finish second in Group F with four points, behind Spain. The Falconets had earlier suffered a 2-0 defeat to Spain before playing out a goalless draw against China PR. Kareem was among the standout performers against New Caledonia, scoring a hat-trick, while Winner Onajite David also netted three goals.

England progressed to the round of 16 after finishing third in Group B with four points. The Young Lionesses opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Canada, followed it with a 5-1 victory over Tanzania and then suffered a 2-1 defeat to Brazil. England advanced ahead of Canada on goals scored after both teams finished level on points.

With a quarter-final place at stake, Uzoma said the Falconets were prepared for the challenge and would approach the match without fear.

“The mood in camp is very good; it’s a winning mentality. We are not scared of England; we are fully prepared for them, and Nigerians should expect victory,” she said.

The captain also spoke about the significance of representing Nigeria, describing the opportunity to wear the national colours as an important achievement and expressing her determination to justify her selection.

Kareem similarly appealed to Nigerians to support the team as they battle for a place among the final eight teams in the tournament.

“Please come and support us, pray for us, and we are promising you that we won’t disappoint; we will win,” she said.

The winner of the encounter will advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face either hosts Poland or Colombia.