Nigeria’s Flamingos won the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, defeating Japan 2–1 in an exciting final at the Stade de Marrakech on Saturday night to secure the nation’s first-ever title in the tournament.
This victory marks a historic milestone for Nigerian football, making the Flamingos the first African team to win the competition since its inception in 2008.
Nigeria advanced to the title match following an impressive run through the tournament, which included a semifinal victory over Brazil.
Following a competitive start, the Flamingos opened the scoring in the 39th minute when striker Awawu Bashiru converted a well-executed team move.
Nigeria extended their lead early in the second half through Oluebube Umejaiku, who struck brilliantly in the 47th minute to put the team in firm control.
Although Japan responded with a goal in the 79th minute, the Nigerian backline held firm to preserve the victory through the final whistle.
Backstory…
The Nigerian U-17 women’s team has previously enjoyed notable success at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, reaching the semi-finals in 2010 and 2012, but had yet to win the competition.
Nigeria’s Flamingos have been regular participants in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup since making their debut in 2008, but had struggled to progress beyond the quarter-finals in their early appearances.
Their breakthrough came in 2022 when they defeated Germany on penalties to claim bronze in India, becoming the first Nigerian U-17 women’s team to win a medal at the tournament.
Ghana had also secured bronze in 2012, making Nigeria’s latest achievement a significant milestone in Africa’s history at the competition.
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