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 makes Nigeria the first African nation to lift the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy.
Japan began the encounter brightly, putting the Nigerian defence under pressure in the opening stages. However, Akeem Busari’s side gradually grew into the contest, creating opportunities through Olubebe Umejiaku and Awawu Bashiru.
Umejiaku came close to breaking the deadlock in the 38th minute, but her header struck the crossbar.
Nigeria eventually took the lead a minute later when Bashiru found the net with a long-range effort, sending the Flamingos into the break with a 1-0 advantage.
The Nigerian youngsters made a strong start to the second half, doubling their lead just two minutes after the restart. Umejiaku finished brilliantly to put Nigeria 2-0 ahead.
Japan refused to give up and mounted a late fightback, with Fuki Ito reducing the deficit in the 80th minute to set up a tense closing period.
However, the Flamingos held firm in the closing stages to secure a historic 2-1 victory and claim Nigeria’s first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
The triumph also marks a landmark moment for African women’s football, with Nigeria becoming the first team from the continent to win the competition.
