England coach reflects on defeat to Falconets

Falconets celebrated after beating England 3-0 in their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Round of 16 match in Poland on Thursday. Photo: X/@SSE_NGA

England U-20 women’s coach Lydia Bedford said her team’s 3-0 loss to Nigeria at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland was due to the Falconets’ physical and direct style of play, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Nigeria continued their strong performance in the tournament with a solid display against the Young Lionesses, securing their spot in the next round.

Tosin Rafiu kicked off the scoring with a stunning goal, skillfully weaving through the England defense before firing the ball past goalkeeper Katie Cox.

Nigeria’s goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma then made a fantastic save from England forward Princess Ademiluyi, keeping Nigeria in the lead. Uzoma also stopped a penalty from Rachel Maltby, deflecting the ball onto the bar and away from danger.

Janet Akekoromowei increased Nigeria’s lead with a well-placed left-footed volley shortly after the second half began, and Mary Mamudu sealed the win with a third goal.

Bedford acknowledged that her team found it hard to keep up with Nigeria’s physical play and direct style.

“I think it’s been a fantastic tournament. We’ve enjoyed being part of it, but we’re disappointed to be going home at this stage.

“Nigeria’s forwards were very effective in being direct and physical, and I think that was something that perhaps we struggled to compete with at times.

“I think this experience will be extremely important to them as they move into their senior careers and hopefully push towards either Sarina Wiegman’s squad in Brazil next year or work with me in the U-23s going forward,” Bedford said.