The Falconets, who arrived in Poland following an extensive preparation programme, struggled to impose themselves against a well-organised Spanish side at Stadion Sosnowiec.
Spain made a bright start and broke the deadlock in the 13th minute through Marisa García, putting Nigeria on the back foot early in the encounter.
Nigeria tried to respond but found it difficult to create clear-cut scoring opportunities as Spain’s defence remained compact and disciplined.
The European side carried its 1-0 advantage into the second half, with the Falconets unable to find the breakthrough they desperately needed.
Spain eventually extended their lead in the 73rd minute when Alba Cerrato found the back of the net to seal a 2-0 victory.
The result leaves Nigeria needing a strong response in their remaining Group F matches, with China PR next on the schedule.
The Falconets will face China on Thursday, September 10, at 5pm Nigerian time, before completing their group-stage campaign against New Caledonia.
Head coach Moses Aduku had described the opening encounter with Spain as a “Cup final” and challenged his players to give their all.
“Spain is a good side, no doubt, but we will approach the game like a Cup final because we want to win,” Aduku said before the match.
With no points from their opening fixture, Nigeria’s matches against China and New Caledonia have now assumed greater importance as the Falconets battle for a place in the knockout stage.
Nigeria remain one of Africa’s most successful teams at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, having finished runners-up in 2010 and 2014.
FULL TIME:
🇪🇸 Spain U20 2–0 Nigeria U20 🇳🇬
⚽ Marisa García 13′
⚽ Alba Cerrato 73′
Next Match:
🇳🇬 Nigeria U20 vs 🇨🇳 China PR U20
📅 Thursday, September 10
⏰ 5:00pm (Nigeria time)
