Nigeria, Sept. 8 -- Nigeria's Falconets began their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup campaign on a disappointing note after losing 2-0 to Spain in their Group F opener on Monday.

The Falconets, who had arrived in Poland following an extensive period of preparation, were unable to find a way past the former world champions at the Stadion Sosnowiec.

Spain took the lead in the 13th minute through Marisa Garcia, putting Nigeria on the back foot early in the encounter.

The Falconets attempted to respond but struggled to break down a well-organised Spanish defence as the European side maintained its advantage into the second half.

Spain eventually doubled their lead in the 73rd minute when Alba Cerrato found the net to put the result beyond...