Colombia Edge Nigeria 1-0 as Late Loboa Strike Ends Falconets’ World Cup Run

Posted : 21 September 2026

Nigeria’s Falconets have been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after Colombia secured a 1-0 quarter-final victory in Łódź, Poland. Valerin Loboa scored in the second minute of stoppage time to send Colombia into the semi-finals and end Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the last four.

The match at Stadion Miejski ŁKS was closely contested for long periods. Nigeria had opportunities to take control, but Colombia’s goalkeeper Luisa Agudelo made an important save from Tumininu Adeshina’s long-range effort in the first half.

The Falconets also threatened through Seimeyeha Janet Akekoromowei, whose movement caused problems for the Colombian defence. However, Nigeria could not turn their pressure into a goal before the break.

Colombia became more dangerous after the interval. Mariana Silva twice found herself in promising positions, but Nigeria goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma produced important saves to keep the score level.

Nigeria's task became more difficult in the 77th minute when Kafayat Mafisere was sent off for a high challenge on Samantha Rodriguez. The dismissal left Moses Aduku's side with 10 players and allowed Colombia to take greater control of the closing stages.

The decisive moment came in the 92nd minute. Loboa reacted quickest after her initial effort was blocked by Uzoma and slid in to finish from close range, giving Colombia a dramatic victory.

The defeat ended a promising tournament for the Falconets. Nigeria had struggled for consistency early in the competition, but recovered strongly with a 10-1 win over New Caledonia in the group stage before producing an impressive 3-0 victory over England in the Round of 16.

Aduku's team had entered the quarter-final with renewed confidence after the England victory. Against Colombia, however, they were unable to reproduce that attacking efficiency and ultimately paid the price after losing a player to a red card.

For Colombia, the victory secured a place in the semi-finals against defending champions DPR Korea. FIFA named Luisa Agudelo its Visa Player of the Match, while Loboa's late goal provided the decisive contribution.

The result means Nigeria's search for a first FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup title continues. Despite the elimination, the Falconets' strong finish to the group stage and knockout-stage victory over England provided valuable experience for a young squad competing at the global level.

Colombia Edge Nigeria 1-0 as Late Loboa Strike Ends Falconets’ World Cup Run

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