Nigeria Makes History as Flamingos Become First African Nation to Win U-17 Women’s World Cup

Nigeria’s Flamingos have become the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Japan 2-1 in the final played on Saturday, November 7, 2026, in Rabat, Morocco.

The historic victory handed Nigeria its first title in the competition and made the Flamingos the first African women’s national team to win a FIFA World Cup trophy at any age level.

Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring in the 39th minute after her effort slipped through the hands of Japanese goalkeeper Kou Kadowaki, giving Nigeria a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime.

The Flamingos doubled their lead just two minutes into the second half when Oluebube Umejiaku collected a long pass from Esther Stephen and lifted the ball over the advancing goalkeeper.

Japan responded in the 80th minute through Fuki Ito, who converted after Anri Ito headed a corner back into the penalty area.

Despite sustained pressure from the Japanese in the closing minutes, Nigeria maintained its advantage to secure a historic victory at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.

The triumph marked a remarkable turnaround for the Flamingos, who began the tournament with a 2-1 defeat to Poland before recovering to win six consecutive matches.

Nigeria defeated Puerto Rico and defending champions North Korea in the group stage before overcoming Mexico, Venezuela and Brazil in the knockout rounds.

A convincing 3-1 victory over Brazil in the semi-finals secured Nigeria’s first appearance in the competition’s final, setting up the decisive encounter against Japan.

The victory also made Nigeria the first country to win the FIFA U-17 World Cup in both the men’s and women’s categories.

Nigeria previously won the men’s U-17 World Cup five times, in 1985, 1993, 2007, 2013 and 2015.

Before Saturday’s triumph, the Flamingos’ best performance in the women’s competition was a third-place finish at the 2022 tournament in India.

Umejiaku, who scored the winning goal against Japan, was named the tournament’s best player and received the Golden Ball award after scoring four goals during the competition.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated the Nigerian team, describing the achievement as well deserved and recognising its significance for African women’s football.

President Bola Tinubu also congratulated the players and coaching staff, praising their determination and resilience throughout the tournament.

The achievement represents a major milestone for women’s football in Nigeria and across Africa, demonstrating the continent’s growing ability to compete successfully at the highest level of international youth football.

Beyond the celebrations, the victory also highlights the importance of sustained investment in grassroots football, youth development, coaching and women’s sporting infrastructure to ensure that Nigeria’s emerging talents can progress successfully into senior international football.