Oyo State is set to return to the continental football stage as it prepares to host Nigeria’s Falconets in a decisive 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifying match against Senegal’s Lionesses of Teranga.
The announcement was made in Ibadan on Monday in a statement issued by the Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke.
The highly anticipated qualifier is scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
According to the commissioner, Oyo State’s selection as host reflects its growing reputation as a dependable destination for international football fixtures.
She noted that the state successfully hosted the Falconets’ previous qualifier against Rwanda at the same venue in 2025.
That match ended in a convincing victory for Nigeria and drew praise for its organisation, security, and facilities.
Oyo Builds on Growing Reputation as International Sports Host
Hon. Adegoke said the upcoming encounter further confirms Oyo State’s position as a rising hub for high-profile sporting events in Nigeria.
She explained that the choice of venue was influenced by the positive assessment of the state’s infrastructure, pitch quality, and matchday logistics by football authorities.
“The Lekan Salami Stadium has continued to serve as a fortress for our national teams, and we are confident the Falconets will make the nation proud,” she said.
The Falconets’ last appearance in Ibadan saw them dominate Rwanda in front of a lively home crowd, a performance that boosted Nigeria’s qualification hopes and reaffirmed the venue’s suitability for elite competitions.
Nigeria’s U-20 women’s team remains one of Africa’s most successful sides at youth level, having represented the continent multiple times at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
The Falconets reached the quarterfinals of the 2024 edition, maintaining Nigeria’s long-standing presence in the tournament’s latter stages.
The qualifier against Senegal forms part of the African qualifying series for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, organised by FIFA and coordinated by the Confederation of African Football.
More details on the tournament format are available on the official FIFA website and the Nigeria Football Federation platform.
Security, Logistics, and Fan Experience Assured
The commissioner assured football fans, team officials, and international observers that comprehensive arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and secure matchday.
She said security agencies have been fully briefed, while logistics plans covering team movement, accommodation, and stadium operations are already underway.
“We are committed to providing adequate security, effective logistics, and a memorable experience for fans and visitors,” Adegoke stated.
She disclosed that the Falconets are expected to arrive in Ibadan on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, giving the team ample time to acclimatise and complete preparations ahead of the fixture.
The Lekan Salami Stadium, which underwent major upgrades in recent years, meets international standards and has hosted several national and club-level fixtures.
Officials believe the strong home support traditionally enjoyed by Nigerian teams in Ibadan could play a crucial role in the outcome of the match.
Call for Massive Support as Falconets Chase Qualification
Hon. Adegoke called on football lovers across Oyo State and neighbouring regions to turn out in large numbers to support the Falconets.
She described the match as a critical step in Nigeria’s journey toward securing another appearance at the global youth tournament.
“We urge our people to come out en masse and support the Falconets as they take another decisive step toward qualifying for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup,” she said.
Senegal’s Lionesses of Teranga are regarded as a disciplined and competitive side, making the encounter a key test for the Nigerian team.
With qualification at stake and continental pride on the line, expectations are high that the match will deliver both intensity and quality.
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