History Made in Rabat: Nigeria Crowned FIFA U-17 Women’s World Champions After 2-1 Triumph Over Japan

The Nigeria Under 17 Women’s National Team, the Flamingos, have made history in world sport after they defeated Japan 2-1 in the final to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026. They secured their first ever world title in an exciting final played on Saturday 7 November 2026 at the Mohammed VI Football Academy complex in Rabat. Nigeria have established themselves as the dominant force in the competition with the historic win marking the first time an African country has ever won a FIFA women’s world title.

Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 39 th minute. Awawu Bashiru scored brilliantly after receiving a clever low cross from Mary Dunstan. The goal boosted the confidence of the African side as they took control of the game and led 1-0 at half-time.

The Flamingos continued to attack aggressively at the start of the second half. This paid off in the 47 th minute as Oluebube Umejiaku scored Nigeria’s second goal. She used her right foot to finish after a sensational build up from Esther Stephen. The goal gave the West Africans a 2-0 lead and meant the four-time finalists from Asia had an uphill battle to win.

The spirited young Japanese team fought back in the dying moments of the match. They cut the deficit in the 80 th minute after a stunning strike from Fuki Ito. This created a nail-biting finish as the African team had to fight hard to keep their lead.

Despite the immense pressure from the Asian giants, Nigeria’s defence held firm. Technical changes were made to the team to disrupt Japan’s play and stop crosses into the box. At the final whistle the stadium exploded as the historic Flamingos achieved their dream.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino was present in the stadium to see the historic victory. After the trophy ceremony Infantino congratulated the new champions, saying they were “well deserved”. He also gave high praise to Japan for their technical ability in the competition.

The Flamingos secured a clean sweep of awards. Oluebube Umejiaku was presented with the adidas Golden Ball for being the best player in the tournament. She was praised by technical teams for her incredible pace and ability to play. Her winning goal in the final took her to four goals in the tournament.

Despite Nigeria winning the main trophy other countries were awarded prizes. The United States may have been knocked out at the quarter finals but their star player, Maddie DiMaria, was given the adidas Golden Boot after scoring an incredible 12 goals. DPR Korea’s goalkeeper Kim Son-gyong won the adidas Golden Glove after aiding her country to a 6-0 win over Brazil to take the bronze.

For Nigeria’s coaches it is a huge achievement. The Flamingos started the competition in Morocco with a disappointing defeat to Poland 1-2. But they quickly adapted to their tactics and won six games in a row against Puerto Rico, North Korea, Mexico, Venezuela, Brazil and finally Japan.

Millions of excited football supporters took to social media to celebrate their win. Historians have said Nigeria are the first unique African country to win world titles in men’s and women’s age groups. As the team prepare to return to Abuja, officials are organising high level meetings with the President to welcome the golden girls back.