Nigeria’s Flamingos have made history by defeating Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The victory on Saturday makes Nigeria the first African country to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, securing the country’s first title in the competition.
The Flamingos also became the first team to win the tournament after losing their opening group-stage match.
Nigeria took the lead in the 39th minute through Awawu Bashiru, whose long-range effort beat Japanese goalkeeper Kadowaki.
Oluebube Umejiaku doubled Nigeria’s advantage just two minutes into the second half, finishing from a loose ball to put the Flamingos in a strong position.
Japan reduced the deficit in the 80th minute through Fuki Ito, setting up a tense finish. However, Nigeria held on to secure the historic victory.
The final, played at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, saw Japan enjoy 51 per cent possession compared with Nigeria’s 49 per cent.
Nigeria also recorded 10 shots against Japan’s eight, while both teams managed two and one shots on target respectively.
The Flamingos reached the final after defeating Brazil 3-1 in the semi-finals. They had earlier beaten Venezuela 1-0 in the quarter-finals and Mexico 2-1 in the round of 16.
Their campaign began with a 2-1 defeat to Poland in the group stage.
Japan, a former champion, reached the final after beating North Korea on penalties in the semi-finals. The Japanese side had also defeated Ghana 1-0 in the quarter-finals and Kenya 3-1 in the round of 16.
Awawu Bashiru was named Player of the Match in the final after her crucial opening goal.
The victory marks a major milestone for Nigerian women’s football and ends the country’s wait for a FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title.
