RismadarVoice Reporters
November 8, 2026
Nigeria’s Flamingos have made history by winning the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Japan 2–1 in Saturday’s final in Rabat, Morocco.
The victory marks Nigeria’s first title in the competition and makes the Flamingos the first African team to lift the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy.
The final, played at the Mohammed VI Football Complex on November 7, saw Nigeria take control through goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku before surviving a late Japanese comeback.
Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute when her long-range effort slipped through the hands of Japanese goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki.
Nigeria doubled their advantage just two minutes after the restart, with Umejiaku finishing a move initiated by Esther Stephen in the 47th minute.
Japan reduced the deficit in the 80th minute through Fuki Ito, setting up a tense conclusion as the Asian side searched for an equaliser.
However, the Flamingos maintained their defensive organisation and held on to secure the historic victory.
Nigeria’s journey to the title was particularly remarkable after the team suffered a 2–1 defeat to Poland in their opening group match.
The Flamingos recovered with victories over Puerto Rico and defending champions North Korea before defeating Mexico and Venezuela in the knockout stages.
They then overcame Brazil 3–1 in the semi-finals to reach their first-ever final.
The triumph marks a major milestone for Nigerian and African women’s football, surpassing the country’s previous best, third place at the 2022 tournament in India.
Umejiaku, whose winning goal proved decisive, was named Player of the Match and also received the tournament’s Golden Ball award.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated the Nigerian team, describing the achievement as a historic moment for the country and the African continent.
President Bola Tinubu also congratulated the players, coaching staff and Nigeria Football Federation, praising their determination and teamwork throughout the competition.
The victory makes Nigeria the first African country to win both the men’s and women’s FIFA U-17 World Cups, following the Golden Eaglets’ five previous world titles.
For the Flamingos, the achievement establishes a new chapter in Nigerian football history and provides a landmark success for women’s youth football across Africa.
