Nigeria’s Flamingos have made history by defeating Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, becoming the first African team to lift the trophy, as reported by Punch. The victory, secured on Saturday, November 7, at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Rabat, marks Nigeria’s maiden title in the competition and a landmark achievement for African women’s football. It also makes Nigeria the first African nation to win both the men’s and women’s editions of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, adding a new chapter to the country’s established record in youth football.
The Flamingos took control of the final through goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku. Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute after connecting with a pass from Mary Dunstan, before Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s advantage two minutes into the second half with a composed finish following Esther Stephen’s pass. Japan mounted a late challenge, with Fuki Ito reducing the deficit in the 80th minute, but Nigeria held firm through the closing stages to secure the championship. Umejiaku, who scored four goals during the tournament, was named Player of the Match in the final and received the Golden Ball award as the competition’s outstanding player.
The triumph was particularly remarkable given Nigeria’s difficult start to the tournament, having lost their opening group match 2-1 to Poland. The team recovered with a series of determined performances, recording six consecutive victories, including a win over defending champions North Korea and a 3-1 semi-final victory against Brazil. According to FIFA, the Flamingos also became the first African women’s team to win a FIFA world title at any level. Their achievement represents a major milestone for Nigeria and the continent, highlighting the potential of African women’s football and strengthening the case for sustained investment in youth development, coaching, grassroots competitions and pathways for emerging female players.
