Nigeria’s Flamingos have secured their first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title after defeating Japan 2-1 in the 2026 final, becoming the first African women’s team to win the competition.
The victory also marks the first time a Nigerian women’s national team has claimed a FIFA world title.
Awawu Bashiru gave Nigeria the lead in the 39th minute, finishing a move initiated by Mary Dunstan to put the Flamingos ahead at half-time.
Nigeria extended their advantage just two minutes into the second half when Oluebube Umejiaku produced an audacious chip over the Japanese goalkeeper in the 47th minute. Esther Stephen provided the assist for the goal.
Japan reduced the deficit in the 80th minute through Fuki Ito, but the Nigerian side maintained their defensive discipline to protect their lead and secure the historic victory.
The triumph capped an impressive recovery by Nigeria, who lost their opening group-stage match against Poland before winning their remaining fixtures.
The Flamingos defeated Puerto Rico, North Korea (DPR Korea), Mexico and Venezuela before overcoming Brazil 3-1 in the semi-finals to book their place in the final.
Japan, who won the competition in 2014, reached the final after eliminating North Korea on penalties in the semi-finals.
The victory represents Nigeria’s first title since the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup was introduced in 2008 and makes the country the first African nation to win the men’s and women’s editions of the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets had previously won the men’s competition, while the Flamingos finished third in the women’s tournament in 2022.
The historic campaign also saw Nigeria become the first team to win the tournament after losing their opening match.
Umejiaku received the Golden Ball award in recognition of her outstanding performances throughout the competition. She scored four goals and played a key role in Nigeria’s successful campaign.
Meanwhile, the United States’ Maddie DiMaria claimed the Golden Boot after scoring a record 12 goals, while DPR Korea goalkeeper Kim Son-gyong won the Golden Glove award.
Kim helped her country secure third place after a commanding 6-0 victory over Brazil in the third-place match.
The achievement also marked a memorable milestone for head coach Hakeem Busari, who guided the Flamingos to their maiden world title.
