Nigeria’s under-17 women’s national football team, known as the Flamingos, has achieved a historic milestone by winning the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. The team secured the title on Saturday, defeating former champions Japan 2-1 at the Mohammed VI Football Complex. This victory makes Nigeria the first African nation to win the competition since it began in 2008.
Under the leadership of head coach Akeem Busari, the Flamingos made headlines by reaching the final—a first for any African team in the tournament’s history—after previously finishing with a bronze medal in 2022. The final match saw Nigeria facing a determined Japanese side, which was making its fourth appearance in the finals.
The match opened with a competitive spirit, but Nigeria broke through in the 39th minute when midfielder Awawu Bashiru scored with a long-range shot, putting the Flamingos ahead 1-0. Just after the halftime break, forward Oluebube Umejiaku extended Nigeria’s lead to 2-0 in the 47th minute.
Japan, aiming to reclaim their title last won in 2014, responded with aggressive substitutions and increased pressure in the latter stages of the match. They managed to score in the 80th minute, creating a tense finish for the crowd, which included FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe. However, Nigeria’s defense, led by goalkeeper Sylvia Ijirigho and defender Omowunmi Sunday, stood strong against Japan’s late attempts, securing a memorable victory for Nigerian and African women’s football.
