Nigeria began their U-20 Women's World Cup campaign on a losing note on Monday as they were beaten 1-0 by Germany in their Group D opener in Saint-Malo.
Stefanie Sanders' 69th-minute winner settled a game devoid of quality for the three-time winners. Both sides lacked precision in their passing, with chances at a premium.
Nigeria could have fallen behind early in the second-half, but for some smart saves from impressive 17-year-old goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who notably denied Sanders and Janina Minge.
20 minutes from time, Sanders profited from a goalmouth scramble after a corner kick to tuck the ball into the back of the net and give Germany the lead.
The goal spurred the hitherto non-existent Nigerian attack into life, and Peace Efih was denied by the woodwork before a smart stop from German keeper Vanessa Fischer late on prevented Anam Imo from netting an equaliser.
Next up for the Falconets are debutants Haiti on Thursday, while Germany meet China.