Nigeria’s Flamingos have been crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The Flamingos of Nigeria defeated Japan 2-1 in a thrilling final played at the Stade de Marrakech on Saturday night, securing the country’s first-ever title in the competition’s history.
It is a monumental achievement for Nigerian football, as the Flamingos have become the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup since the tournament was inaugurated in 2008.
Nigeria enjoyed a fairytale run to the final, overcoming formidable opponents, including Brazil in the semi-finals, to set up a title showdown against Japan.
Both teams started the final with high intensity, but the Flamingos broke the deadlock in the first half. A well-orchestrated attacking move saw forward Awawu Bashiru calmly slot the ball into the net in the 39th minute to give Nigeria the lead.
The Flamingos extended their advantage early in the second half. In the 47th minute, Oluebube Umejaiku fired home a brilliant finish to double Nigeria’s lead and put the team firmly in control.
Japan pulled one back in the 79th minute to reduce the deficit, but the goal proved to be only a consolation as Nigeria’s defence held firm until the final whistle.
The victory secured Nigeria’s maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title and marked a historic milestone for African women’s football.
