After suffering a 2–0 defeat to Spain in their opening game, Nigeria produced a much-improved defensive display against a China side that had opened its campaign with a 5–0 demolition of New Caledonia.
Neither team could find the breakthrough despite creating opportunities, with Nigeria goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma producing a composed performance to help the Falconets secure a valuable clean sheet.
• China PR: No goals
• Nigeria: No goals
Nigeria made a bright start, with Janet Akekoromowei creating the first clear opening in the 17th minute. The forward continued to pose a threat as the first half progressed, coming close again in the 38th minute and deep into stoppage time.
Kafayat Mafisere also helped Nigeria build pressure, winning a corner in the 33rd minute as the Falconets began to find more confidence in possession.
China, however, remained dangerous. Huang Jiaxin, Zhou Xinyi and Song Lijuan all tested the Nigerian defence, while Xue Sifan provided a threat from set pieces.
Uzoma and the Falconets' backline stood firm to ensure the two sides went into half-time level at 0–0.
China introduced Chen Ruilin at the beginning of the second half in an attempt to increase their attacking threat. The substitute quickly became involved as China searched for the opening goal.
Nigeria responded positively, with Precious Oscar going close in the 54th minute before Mafisere threatened twice in quick succession in the 56th and 60th minutes. Queen Joseph also had an opportunity as the Falconets looked to break the deadlock.
The biggest talking point came in the 74th minute when Nigeria appeared to have been handed a golden opportunity to take the lead after being awarded a penalty.
However, following a VAR review, the penalty decision was overturned, leaving Nigeria frustrated but still level with their opponents.
Neither side could produce the decisive moment during the closing stages, and the final whistle confirmed a 0–0 draw.
The result gives Nigeria their first point of the tournament and keeps their hopes of reaching the Round of 16 alive. Spain have already established a strong position at the top of Group F with six points, while China move to four points. Nigeria sit third with one point, ahead of bottom-placed New Caledonia.
The Falconets now face a crucial final group match against New Caledonia on Sunday, September 13. A victory would significantly strengthen Nigeria's chances of progressing to the knockout stage, either by finishing second or potentially qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams.
For coach Moses Aduku, the draw represents an important response after the disappointing opening defeat to Spain. Nigeria now know that they must turn their improved performance into three points when they face New Caledonia in their final group fixture.