Oluebube Umejiaku of Nigeria has been awarded the adidas Golden Ball at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup held in Morocco. This recognition comes after her significant contribution to the Nigerian team, the Flamingos, who secured their first title by defeating Japan 2-1 in the finals.
In the championship match, Umejiaku scored Nigeria’s second goal, bringing her total to four goals for the tournament. Her outstanding performance has been highlighted as a key factor in the team’s success.
Other notable awards at the tournament included the Silver Ball awarded to DPR Korea’s Yu Jong-hyang and the Bronze Ball to Japan’s Fuki Ito. The Golden Boot for the highest scorer was claimed by United States forward Maddie DiMaria, who found the net 12 times during the competition. The Silver Boot went to Yu Jong-hyang, while DPR Korea’s Ri Ui-gyong received the Bronze Boot. The Golden Glove, awarded to the best goalkeeper, was given to DPR Korea’s Kim Son-gyong, and Japan took home the FIFA Fair Play Trophy.
