Nigeria’s Falconets have stormed into the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after recording a commanding 10-1 victory over New Caledonia in their final Group F match in Poland.

The emphatic result on Sunday gave Nigeria the points and goal difference needed to finish second in Group F and progress to the knockout stage.

The Falconets entered the decisive fixture needing a strong result after losing 2-0 to Spain and playing out a goalless draw against China in their opening two matches.

They responded with an outstanding attacking display, taking control of the contest and producing their biggest victory of the tournament.

Ramotalahi Kareem opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 17th minute before Rebecca Adegbemile doubled Nigeria’s advantage two minutes later.

Seimeyeha Akekoromowei added a third goal in the 23rd minute, while Kareem struck again four minutes later to give the Falconets a commanding 4-0 lead at half-time.

Nigeria continued their dominance after the restart. Winner Onajite David scored in the 60th minute before Kareem completed her hat-trick four minutes later.

Tosin Rafiu added another goal in the 70th minute, while Adegbemile completed her brace seven minutes later.

David then scored twice in the closing stages to complete her hat-trick and take Nigeria’s tally to 10 goals.

New Caledonia managed a consolation goal through Joceline Kourevi in the 89th minute, but the strike did little to change the outcome.

The victory lifted Nigeria to four points from three matches and secured second place in Group F behind Spain. China also finished with four points but missed out on second place because of Nigeria’s superior goal difference.

The result means the Falconets will now face England, winners of Group E, in the Round of 16 on Thursday.

The impressive comeback has given Moses Aduku’s side renewed momentum as they continue their pursuit of a strong finish at the tournament.

The Falconets, two-time finalists at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, will now look to carry their attacking form into the knockout stage.