Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have made history after defeating Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, becoming the first African country to claim the title.
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The historic victory was secured on Saturday, November 7, at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, marking Nigeria’s first triumph in the competition and the first time an African women’s national team has won a FIFA World Cup title at any level.
Nigeria took the lead in the 39th minute through Awawu Bashiru, who converted a pass from Mary Dunstan to put the Flamingos ahead.
The Nigerian side doubled their advantage two minutes into the second half when Oluebube Umejiaku raced onto a pass from Esther Stephen before calmly lifting the ball over Japan’s goalkeeper to make it 2-0.
Japan reduced the deficit in the 80th minute through Fuki Ito, setting up a tense finish as the Asian side pushed for an equaliser. However, the Flamingos held on to secure the victory and lift the trophy.
The triumph also made Nigeria the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 World Cup in both the men’s and women’s categories, following the Golden Eaglets’ successes in the boys’ competition.
The Flamingos’ journey to the title was particularly remarkable, having lost their opening group match 2-1 to Poland. They recovered from the setback to record six consecutive victories, defeating Puerto Rico, defending champions North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil before overcoming Japan in the final.
Their 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-final had secured Nigeria’s first-ever appearance in the final of the competition.
Umejiaku, who scored four goals during the tournament, was named the Player of the Match in the final and also received the Golden Ball award as the competition’s outstanding player.
Nigeria’s achievement surpassed the team’s previous best performance of third place at the 2022 edition of the tournament in India.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated the Flamingos, describing their victory as well deserved and celebrating the historic breakthrough for African women’s football.
The victory represents a major milestone for Nigeria and the continent, highlighting the growing potential of women’s football in Africa and the importance of sustained investment in youth development.
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