Nigeria’s Flamingos have been crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after a 2-1 victory over Japan in Saturday’s final in Rabat, Morocco.
The triumph delivers a first world title at this level for Nigeria’s under-17 women and makes the Flamingos the first team from Africa to lift the trophy.
Road to a historic title
- Nigeria booked a place in their first final in the competition by defeating Brazil 3-1 in the semi-finals.
- The Flamingos opened the scoring in the 39th minute against Japan when Awawu Bashiru struck from outside the penalty area. Japan goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki failed to hold the shot, allowing the ball to roll over the line.
- Shortly after half-time, Oluebube Umejiaku extended Nigeria’s lead. She stayed composed in front of goal and guided her finish beyond Kadowaki to make it 2-0.
- Japan reduced the gap in the 80th minute as Fuki Ito scored to set up a tense finish and bring the score back to 2-1.
- Nigeria withstood the late pressure from the Japanese side, protecting their advantage until the final whistle to complete a landmark campaign in Morocco.
