Nigeria’s Falconets could be without captain Joy Igbokwe at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s Women’s World Cup in Poland after the midfielder reportedly encountered difficulties obtaining a visa.
Igbokwe, who plays for Nasarawa Amazons, was expected to play a key role for Nigeria after helping the team secure qualification for the tournament.
According to reports, the development has raised concerns over her availability as the competition approaches.
Igbokwe’s World Cup participation uncertain
The exact nature of the visa problem remains unclear.
Neither the Nigeria Football Federation nor Igbokwe has publicly confirmed that her visa application was rejected, leaving uncertainty over whether the issue involves documentation, processing delays or another administrative matter.
The captain’s absence would be a major concern for coach Moses Aduku, particularly because of her leadership and experience with the squad.
Igbokwe captained the Falconets during important matches in their qualifying campaign and has been an influential figure within the team.
Other Falconets players reportedly affected
The visa concerns may also extend beyond the team captain.
Reports indicate that several other Falconets players have encountered difficulties securing the necessary travel clearance, although their identities and the specific nature of their problems have not been disclosed.
If the issues are not resolved before the team travels, the coaching staff could be forced to make late adjustments to the squad.
Nigeria preparing for Poland
Despite the visa concerns, the Falconets have continued preparations for the tournament.
The team recorded a convincing 10-0 victory over Sunshine FC in a preparatory match in July as Aduku works on the squad’s fitness and tactical preparations.
Nigeria secured its place at the World Cup after overcoming Rwanda, Senegal and Malawi during the African qualifiers.
The qualification also extends Nigeria’s remarkable record of appearing at every edition of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup since the tournament began in 2002.
Falconets drawn in Group F
Nigeria has been placed in Group F alongside Spain, China PR and Paraguay.
The Falconets are scheduled to open their campaign against Spain on September 7, before facing China PR on September 10 and Paraguay on September 13.
The tournament is scheduled to take place in Poland from September 5 to 27, 2026.
Nigeria have twice reached the final of the competition, finishing runners-up in 2010 and 2014, while they also reached the semi-finals in 2012.
For now, Igbokwe’s participation remains uncertain, as there is no official confirmation that her visa has been rejected. If the issue is not resolved in time, Nigeria may have to enter the tournament without its captain.
