Ebenezer Essien
Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have made history by winning the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final in Rabat, Morocco.
The victory, recorded on Saturday, November 7, secured Nigeria’s first title in the competition and made the country the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The Flamingos took the lead in the 39th minute through Awawu Bashiru, whose long-range effort slipped through the hands of Japan’s goalkeeper, Kou Kadowaki.
Nigeria doubled its lead two minutes into the second half when Oluebube Umejiaku controlled a pass from Esther Stephen before lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper.
Japan reduced the deficit in the 80th minute through Fuki Ito, who converted a rebound following a corner kick.
Despite Japan’s late attempts to find an equaliser, the Nigerian team held on to its lead until the final whistle to secure the championship.
Umejiaku was named Player of the Match following her impressive performance, which included Nigeria’s second goal.
The victory capped an impressive campaign for the Flamingos, who recovered from a 2-1 defeat to Poland in their opening match to win their next six matches.
Their run included a 3-1 semi-final victory over Brazil, in which Awawu Bashiru scored twice while Queen Joseph added another goal.
The triumph also marks the first time an African women’s national team has won a FIFA World Cup title at any level.
Following the victory, FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Nigeria, describing the achievement as a historic moment for the country and African football.
The Flamingos’ triumph adds the U-17 women’s title to Nigeria’s record of five FIFA U-17 men’s World Cup titles, won in 1985, 1993, 2007, 2013 and 2015.
The team was coached by Hakeem Busari, who led the young players to the historic title in Morocco.
