The two-time World Cup finalists secured the slim but valuable win through a second-half header from Janet Akekoromowei, giving them an advantage heading into the decisive return leg in Ibadan.
Cagey First Half, Breakthrough After the Hour
The opening 45 minutes were evenly contested, with the Falconets dominating possession but struggling to break down a disciplined Rwandan defence. The hosts, buoyed by their home crowd, focused on maintaining their defensive structure, limiting Nigeria to half chances before the interval.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 70th minute. Akekoromowei rose highest to meet a well-delivered corner kick, nodding past the Rwandan goalkeeper to hand Nigeria the lead.
Rwanda pressed forward in search of an equaliser in the closing stages, but the Falconets’ backline held firm, ensuring the visitors left Kigali with a vital away win.
Eyes on the Return Leg
The qualification tie will be decided when both sides meet again at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, on Saturday, September 27. Victory on aggregate will see the Falconets progress to the third round of qualifiers, where they will face either Senegal or Algeria.
Nigeria, a powerhouse in women’s youth football, will be looking to extend their proud record of consistent U-20 World Cup appearances. The Falconets have reached the final twice and remain one of Africa’s most formidable teams at this level.