Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingoes, have made history by defeating Japan 2–1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The historic victory on Saturday, November 7, 2026, marks Nigeria’s first-ever triumph in the competition and makes the Flamingoes the first African team to lift the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup trophy.
The Nigerian youngsters delivered a memorable performance in the final, displaying determination, attacking quality and remarkable composure to overcome their Japanese opponents.
Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 39th minute, giving the Flamingoes a first-half advantage.
Barely two minutes into the second half, Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 47th minute with an impressive finish, putting the Nigerian side in a commanding position.
Japan fought back and reduced the deficit in the 80th minute through Fuki Ito, setting up a tense closing period. However, the Flamingoes stood firm defensively and protected their advantage until the final whistle.
The victory represents a remarkable turnaround for the Nigerian girls, who began their campaign with a 2–1 defeat to Poland but responded with a series of impressive performances to reach the final.
On their journey to the championship match, the Flamingoes defeated Puerto Rico, Korea DPR, Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil, demonstrating their quality and determination against some of the strongest teams in the competition.
Their 3–1 semi-final victory over Brazil secured their historic place in the final against Japan.
The triumph is particularly significant for Nigerian and African football, as it represents the first time an African nation has won the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
It is a moment of immense pride for the Nigeria Football Federation, the players, their coaching crew, their families and millions of football-loving Nigerians at home and abroad.
The Flamingoes have written their names in the history books, bringing global recognition to Nigeria’s growing reputation in women’s football.
Nigeria are champions of the world! Congratulations to the Flamingoes!