Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national football 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 lift the trophy.
The Nigerian youngsters secured the historic victory in Saturday’s final, November 7, at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, delivering Nigeria’s first-ever title in the competition since its introduction in 2008.
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’ five victories in the men’s competition.
The Flamingos took the lead in the 39th minute through Awawu Bashiru, who finished a move involving Mary Dunstan to give Nigeria a 1–0 advantage before the break.
Nigeria extended its lead shortly after the restart when Oluebube Umejiaku scored in the 47th minute, capitalising on an opportunity created by Esther Stephen to put the team firmly in control.
Japan, the 2014 champions, fought back and reduced the deficit through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute. However, the Nigerian defence remained resolute to preserve the advantage and secure the country’s historic victory.
The result capped an impressive recovery by the Flamingos, who lost their opening group match against Poland but bounced back to win their remaining fixtures.
Their journey to the trophy included victories over Puerto Rico, North Korea, Mexico and Venezuela before they defeated Brazil 3–1 in the semi-final to book their place in the final against Japan.
The victory over Brazil had already marked a significant milestone, making Nigeria the first African team to reach the final of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Umejiaku wins Golden Ball
Nigeria’s success was further rewarded as forward Oluebube Umejiaku received the adidas Golden Ball award for her outstanding performance throughout the tournament.
Umejiaku scored four goals during the competition, including the decisive second goal in the final against Japan.
The United States’ Maddie DiMaria won the Golden Boot after finishing as the tournament’s highest scorer with 12 goals, while DPR Korea goalkeeper Kim Son-gyong received the Golden Glove.
Japan received the FIFA Fair Play Trophy.
Government, football stakeholders celebrate team
The Flamingos’ achievement attracted recognition from football authorities and government officials, with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Patrice Motsepe, previously congratulating the team for reaching the final and making Africa proud.
Following their victory, the National Sports Commission Chairman, Shehu Dikko, and its Director-General, Bukola Olopade, hosted the players and officials in Rabat to celebrate their achievement.
Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu also announced a $50,000 cash reward for the team in recognition of their historic performance.
The Presidency, through the National Sports Commission, also facilitated the payment of outstanding bonuses and allowances owed to the players and officials for their campaign, from the preliminary qualifying rounds to the final.
The Flamingos’ victory represents a landmark moment for Nigerian women’s football and highlights the potential of investing in young female athletes.
Their achievement has also placed African women’s youth football on a new global platform, demonstrating that with adequate support, preparation and investment, young African women can compete successfully at the highest level.
