Mali and Burkina Faso have withdrawn from the 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Women’s Cup, prompting organizers to introduce a new league-style format for the regional championship.
According to the West African Football Union (WAFU B), the withdrawals of Mali and Burkina Faso necessitated a change in structure to ensure competitive balance and maximize game time for the remaining teams.
The tournament, initially scheduled for November 3–10, will now run from November 7–17 with just three participating nations -Nigeria, Ghana, and hosts Benin Republic.
In place of the traditional knockout system, the 2025 championship will adopt a round-robin format, with each team facing the others twice.
The side finishing top of the standings after all matches will be crowned champions.
WAFU B explained that the adjustment aims to promote player development, tactical depth, and fair competition, aligning with its broader mission to strengthen women’s youth football across the sub-region.
Nigeria’s U20 women’s team, the Falconets, will begin their quest for regional glory against archrivals Ghana as the competition kicks off this Sunday in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
Nigeria will be seeking to revenge last year’s tense final lose to Ghana in Kumasi on penalties (3–1) following a 1–1 draw.
Under the guidance of new head coach Moses Aduku, the Falconets have assembled a youthful, energetic side determined to reclaim the regional title.
The 10-day tournament will open on Friday, November 7, with Benin Republic facing Ghana in the curtain-raiser.
Nigeria will then meet Ghana again on November 14, and conclude their fixtures against Benin Republic on November 17, the final day of the competition.
